Top 5 Tips for a Healthier Heart

February 3, 2025
American Heart Month Logo

From the life you live to the love you give - your heart makes it all possible! This American Heart Month, show your heart some love by making heart-healthy choices.

Did you know?

  • Heart disease is the #1 killer in Arizona and the U.S.
  • Each year, there are more than 50,000 hospitalizations and almost 10,000 deaths related to heart disease in Arizona.
  • More than 30% of Arizonans report having high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

The good news is that many heart conditions are up to 90% preventable with lifestyle changes like eating healthy, moving your body, and managing stress.

Your heart deserves health

Here are five tips for a healthier heart!

  1. Get moving. Just 30 minutes of activity a day, like a brisk walk, can make a big difference.
  2. Eat heart-healthy foods. This can vary based on your health needs – but think fruits, veggies, and lean proteins.
  3. Stress less. Spend time with loved ones and do things you enjoy.
  4. Get enough sleep. According to the American Heart Association, adults should aim for 7-9 hours a night.
  5. Live tobacco-free. Avoid tobacco and nicotine use to lower your risk for heart disease and stroke.
For AZ Blue members

Be sure to schedule your annual physical exam to help catch any heart health issues early. Most plans cover this yearly wellness exam at 100%, meaning that visit will cost you nothing if you see an in-network provider. Login to your AZ Blue member portal account to find an in-network doctor by clicking ‘Find a Doctor’ on the dashboard.

    Blue Cross® Blue Shield® of Arizona (AZ Blue) is contracted with Medicare to offer HMO Medicare Advantage plans. Enrollment in AZ Blue plans depends on contract renewal.

    You are eligible to enroll in a AZ Blue Medicare Supplement plan if you are age 65 or older, entitled to Medicare Part A, and enrolled in Medicare Part B, and you live in the plan service area. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premiums (and Part A, if applicable), if not otherwise paid for by Medicaid or another third party. During the first six months when you are age 65 and also enrolled in Medicare Parts A & B you cannot be denied a Medicare Supplement plan when you apply for one, regardless of health status.

    Health Choice Pathway HMO D-SNP is a Health Plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the state Medicaid program. Enrollment in Health Choice Pathway HMO D-SNP depends on contract renewal. Health Choice Pathway Member Services can be reached at 1-800-656-8991, TTY: 711, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week.
    Member Services can be reached at 480-937-0409 (in Arizona) or at our toll-free phone number at 1-800-446-8331 (TTY users should call 711). Hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday from April 1 to September 30; and 7 days a week from October 1 to March 31. Member Services also has free language interpreter services available for non-English speakers.

    OptumRx® is an independent company providing prescription mail order services.