TARRANT COUNTY, TX
Public Health
February 14, 2024
Health goals and heart month
As Tarrant County Public Health’s new interim director, I want to commend those Tarrant County residents who not only resolved to work on their health this year, but also those who are hanging tough on their resolutions. Having health goals for ourselves that we can stick to is important for a happier life.
February is American Heart Month. So those health goals you have, like exercise, proper dieting, even getting better sleep, all naturally work to strengthen your heart. When we last looked at heart health in Tarrant County, more than 3,000 residents had died from heart disease in one year. That was one in every five deaths!
There are several risk factors for heart disease, including:
- high blood pressure
- high LDL cholesterol
- smoking
- diabetes
- overweight and obesity
- physical inactivity and
- unhealthy diet.
Anything you may be doing or can do for yourself that helps decrease those risk factors is a good thing!
In other news, we are in the middle of the flu season. Flu is currently widespread. We're advising everyone who hasn't, to get their flu shot. If you have symptoms, stay home, get tested (in case it isn't flu), and seek treatment. There are other things you can do to fight the flu as well.
As always, you can check out our Facebook and Instagram websites to keep up on the latest health happenings in Tarrant County.
Sincerely,
Tom Stallings
Interim Director, Tarrant County Public Health