Heart Truth #4: Quit Smoking!

Smokers are up to 3 times more likely to suffer heart attacks. You control the odds – the sooner you quit, the more you can reduce your chances of getting sick.

Nicotine is addictive. It is this substance that narrows blood vessels and makes the heart work harder. Tar and other chemicals also compound the risk of heart disease. They can cause the build-up of plaque in the arteries, raising cholesterol levels and lowering the efficacy of fibrinogen, an important blood clotting substance.

Among young people, smoking is reported to account for 75% of heart disease cases, which is a sobering thought. If you start smoking from a younger age, the risk increases – the longer you smoke, the higher the risk.

Quitting smoking is a complex process that requires preparation. Try the approach below:

• Set the date to quit
• Tell family and friends and enlist their support
• Remove tobacco products from your environment

Going for preventive heart screening is an effective way to identify hidden heart health risks.

Find out some of the medical procedures available should you need to undergo heart treatment. With the correct insurance coverage, your bill size can be better gauged and managed, while Mount Elizabeth Hospitals can assist with all Medisave, MediShield Life and Integrated Shield Plan claims.

For your peace of mind, talk to one of our heart specialists today or read about how to make healthcare insurance claims to cover your hospital bills.