Know Your Numbers: Building Heart Health

Know Your Numbers: Building Heart Health

Every beat of your heart powers the energy and passion you bring to work—and to life. Taking a few minutes to understand your heart health can make a huge difference—helping you live stronger, longer, and with more energy.

Why Should You Care About Your Heart?

Most heart problems can be prevented. Knowing your “numbers” means you get the jump on risks before they become serious.

What Are “Your Numbers” Anyway?

Think of these as your heart’s vital stats—simple, powerful clues that tell you how your heart is doing:

• Blood Pressure: Aim for under 120/80 mmHg. High numbers mean your heart is working overtime, raising your risk of heart attack or stroke.
• Cholesterol: Keep total cholesterol below 5 mmol/L. Too much “bad” cholesterol can clog your arteries and slow you down.
• Blood Sugar: Fasting blood sugar under 5.6 mmol/L keeps diabetes—and heart trouble—at bay.
• Body Mass Index (BMI): Stay between 18.5 and 24.9. Going over? It could increase your risk of some preventable health issues.
• Waist Circumference: Over 94cm for men and 80cm for women? It’s a red flag—even if your BMI looks okay.

How to Love Your Heart More Every Day

• Book a Check-Up—Today: Haven’t had a health screening in over a year? Don’t wait. Book with your GP or pop into your local pharmacy—they often offer quick, convenient heart health checks.
• Keep Track: Jot down your numbers. Watch for changes and share them with your doctor.
• Eat, Move, Thrive: Fill your plate with fruits and vegetables. Move for at least 150 minutes a week—walk, dance, bike, whatever gets you going! Cut back on salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
• Kick Unhealthy Habits: If you smoke, now’s the time to quit. Need help? There are plenty of resources to support you. Keep alcohol in check too.
• Relax and Recharge: Stress can have an impact on our heart. Find time to unwind, enjoy hobbies, and sleep 7–9 hours a night.

Why Regular Check-Ups Matter

Blood pressure and cholesterol often don’t show symptoms until they become serious. Routine check-ups catch these early, giving you the power to act.

Where to get checked?

Remember that you can get a free health check at your GP or local pharmacy—a simple, convenient way to keep tabs on your heart health without any cost.

If you’d like more detailed testing, the IGP is also offering discounted heart health services this month. Their expert blood tests and ECGs can detect early warning signs, with personalised feedback provided after every check. Book your appointment now at www.theigp.co.uk/ccc

For more information on heart health please visit the British heart foundation

 Any other help and support can be found on our health and wellbeing intranet pages.