Have a Heart: Help Fight America's Leading Cause of Death

America is in a full out war against heart disease. Heart disease threatens more than 8 million lives a year. With those numbers you'd think everyone would be aware of the warning signs and preventive measures but that's not the case.

February is American Heart Month and the American Heart Association wants you to help in the war against Heart Disease.

We all can do a small part to save lives. Following is a list of suggestions and check out the American Heart Association on the web for more information.

1. Know Your Personal Risk For Heart Disease. Regardless of your age, ethnicity or fitness level knowing your risk of heart disease can save your life.

Assessing your risk is easy at Go Red for Women . This site will help you assess your risk and provide you with a Personal Action Plan. Find out if heart disease runs in your family. If it does, you are more likely be affected yourself and should monitor your diet and exercise closely.

2. Commit To A Heart Healthy Lifestyle Your diet, weight, physical activity and exposure to tobacco smoke all affect your heart and your cholesterol level. Regardless of your risk level it always a good idea to commit to eating a heart-healthy diet, enjoying physical exercise and avoiding tobacco smoke

3. Know the Warning Signs Chest discomfort, pain in other areas of the upper body, shortness of breath, breaking out in a cold sweat, lightheadedness, and nausea are all signs of a heart attack and should be addressed. If you experience these symptoms don't wait, call 9-1-1 immediately.

February is a great month to start but taking care of your health should be a priority every month of every year.

The challenge is out there but if everyone takes preventive measures and makes a step to educate someone else like a parent, child or co-worker we can help win the war against the leading cause of death. For other great ways to support healthier hearts visit the American Heart Association.