10/23/2025
Heart disease is largely preventable, yet many Hispanics/Latinos will likely develop coronary heart disease, the most common form of it. Together, we can change that. Make heart disease prevention a priority for yourself and those in your community!
Why are Hispanics/Latinos at higher risk of heart disease?
As a group, Hispanics/Latinos have high rates of certain risk factors for heart disease, such as physical inactivity, being overweight or having obesity, smoking, and having uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Knowing your risk factors is key to understanding how to prevent heart disease and build a strong and healthy heart.
What steps can you take to improve your heart health, individually and as a community?
Social support can help a lot. Studies have shown that having positive, close relationships and feeling connected to others has health benefits. Family plays a big role in shaping healthy habits, so join efforts with your loved ones and encourage each other to commit to these heart-healthy habits together:
Stay Active
Aim for 150 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly. Break it up into manageable chunks, like 30 minutes 5 days a week, or 10 minutes three times a day, 5 days a week. Take a walk after a meal, play soccer, join a dance class, or do anything you enjoy that gets your heart pumping.
Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
Whether it’s a family gathering or your daily meals, fill your plate with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products. Limit foods that are high in saturated fat, sugars, salt and sodium, too.
Control Your Cholesterol
Have your cholesterol checked by a healthcare provider. Use the My Heart Health Tracker to keep track of your numbers. Talk to your provider about any changes in your lifestyle or medications you might need.
Manage Your Diabetes
Having diabetes raises the risk of heart disease. Learn how to control the ABCs of diabetes and note your progress for each one (https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/resources/control-abcs-diabetes-fact-sheet).
Track Your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease. Have your blood pressure checked at each healthcare provider visit and track your numbers using a blood pressure log. Ask if you should self-measure your blood pressure at home.
Stop Smoking
Take steps to quit smoking. Make a list of reasons to quit, select a quit date, and write a contract that outlines your plan for quitting. Ask your healthcare provider for help.
Limit Alcohol
Too much alcohol can raise the risk of having high blood pressure and other health problems. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
Manage Stress
Learning how to de-stress will make you happier and your heart healthier. Find ways to relax like watching a movie or practicing yoga to reduce your stress levels. Be sure to get enough good quality sleep.