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February 6, 2026

American Heart Month: Take Care of Your Heart

In healthcare, it’s easy to focus so much on caring for others that we forget to prioritize ourselves. But heart health isn’t something to put off. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, and while that statistic can feel heavy, it also comes with hope. Many heart-related risks can be reduced with small, consistent habits that fit real life and real schedules.

One helpful tool is the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8, which highlights eight key areas that support cardiovascular health: eating better, staying active, avoiding nicotine, getting healthy sleep, managing weight, and keeping cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar in a healthy range. The goal isn’t to be perfect. It’s simply to improve where you can.

Small changes that make a big difference

You don’t need to overhaul your lifestyle to make progress. Start with a few simple steps:

  • Move more when you can. Even short walks and small bursts of activity add up.
  • Build a better “grab-and-go” routine. Simple snacks like fruit, nuts, yogurt, and high-fiber options can make a difference during busy days.
  • Prioritize sleep whenever possible. Quality rest supports your heart, energy, and stress levels.
  • Know your numbers. Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar are important indicators, and awareness is one of the best tools for prevention.
  • Pay attention to stress. Stress can quietly build over time, so even small mental breaks throughout the day can help.

A reminder for caregivers

If you’re a clinician, you already know the importance of heart health. The hard part is taking your own advice when life gets busy. This month is a reminder that protecting your health is not selfish. It’s necessary.

At Accountable, we put caregivers at the heart of everything we do. And that includes supporting your well-being, not just your career. If you take one thing from American Heart Month, let it be this: start small, stay consistent, and give yourself the same care you give to everyone else.

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