Love Your Heart: Preventing Heart Disease

Heart disease is more common than most people realize. Here are a few important insights:

• Over 2.6 million Canadians are living with diagnosed heart disease.
• Heart disease is Canada’s second leading cause of death, after cancer.
• 9 in 10 Canadians have at least one risk factor for developing heart disease.
• Men are typically diagnosed 10 years earlier than women.
• Many risk factors are preventable, and early screening can significantly reduce your risk.

• Only 45% of online‑sold monitors are validated for accuracy.
• 90% of monitors sold in community pharmacies, including London Drugs, meet Hypertension Canada’s validation standards.
• Your pharmacist can recommend the right device and teach you proper technique.

2. Know your blood pressure target

• Most adults should aim for below 130/80 mmHg (2025 Hypertension Canada Guidelines).
• Your target may vary based on age, health conditions, and your doctor’s recommendations.
• If your readings are consistently high, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to help manage it.

B. Know Your Sugars (A1C)Your Hemoglobin A1C test shows your average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months.

Targets:

• A1C below 6.0% for people without diabetes
• A1C 7.0% or lower for most people with diabetes

People with diabetes are 2–4 times more likely to develop heart disease.

Screening:

• Adults over 40 should have glucose screening every 3 years.
• Those at higher risk may need more frequent tests.

Cholesterol is essential for many body functions, but too much can contribute to plaque buildup and block blood flow to the heart and brain.

• Two types: LDL (“bad”) and HDL (“good”)
• Chronic high cholesterol increases the risk of heart attack and stroke
• Regular screening begins at age 40, or earlier if you’re high-risk

If medication is needed, your provider may prescribe treatments that reduce cholesterol production or absorption.

3. Know Your Risks: Steps to Lower Heart Disease Risk

Some risk factors can’t be changed, like age or family history—but many can. Here’s what you can focus on:

✓ Eat a balanced, heart‑healthy diet

• Follow Canada’s Food Guide
• Diets like Mediterranean or DASH help lower heart disease risk

✓ Move your body regularly

• Aim for 150 minutes of activity per week
• Include muscle‑strengthening exercises
• Reduce long periods of sitting

✓ Maintain a healthy weight

Being over‑ or under‑weight increases heart disease risk. Balanced nutrition and movement help you stay within a healthy range.

✓ Prioritize sleep

• Poor sleep affects blood pressure, weight, and blood sugar.
• Aim for 7–9 hours nightly.

Tips:

• Keep your room cool, dark, quiet
• Maintain a consistent schedule
• Avoid screens before bed

✓ Quit smoking

Smoking damages blood vessels and accelerates plaque buildup. Your London Drugs pharmacist can:

• Help identify triggers
• Build a personalized quit plan
• Provide nicotine replacement and other treatments
• Offer ongoing support

✓ Limit alcohol

Health Canada’s guidance states:

• No amount of alcohol is risk‑free
• More than 3 drinks/week increases cancer risk
• More than 7 drinks/week increases heart disease and stroke risk

Reducing intake lowers your risk.

4. Know Your Team

Your heart health journey doesn’t have to be one you take alone. London Drugs pharmacists partner with doctors, specialists, and other healthcare professionals to help you:

• Understand your risk factors
• Monitor key health numbers
• Choose validated health devices
• Access medications and treatment options
• Stay motivated and supported

Speak with your pharmacist today to learn how we can help you protect your heart and achieve your long-term health goals.