Heart Health in the Workplace

February is American Heart Month.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America, and a major cause of disability for employees. More than $432 billion a year in health care is spent on heart disease alone, according to the Triple Solution for a Healthier America.

Every 25 seconds, a coronary attack happens in the U.S. To help employees recognize the signs of a heart attack, tack up posters or send an e-mail with the following symptoms to look out for:

Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.

Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

Shortness of breath. May occur with or without chest discomfort.

Other signs: These may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.

To help prevent heart disease, encourage the following tips in and out of the office:

Promote physical activity. Adults need at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity every week.

Try implementing a walking program in your office. Walking is a low-pact, cheap, and convenient way to get employees moving, which can decrease health care costs and improve productivity.

If your company has an on-site meal provider: Offer fat-free, 1% fat, and low-fat dairy products. Also, leaner food options without partially hydrogenated vegetable oils are best for a healthy heart.

Aim for less than 300 mg of cholesterol each day.

Cut the sugar. Trade beverages and foods with added sugars, for reduced sugar options and whole grains.

Put down processed foods. Aim for less than 2,300 mg of sodium per day.