February is national heart health month, probably because St. Valentine’s Day happens in the middle of the month, but it is as good a month as any to remind ourselves of the many and various heart issues that affect us and that we should be striving to solve these problems for future generations. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. A person can take many steps in order to reduce their risks of heart disease. Making heart-healthy choices, knowing your family health history and the risk factors for heart disease, having regular check-ups and working with your physician to manage your health are all integral aspects of saving lives from this often silent killer. Make a difference in your community by spreading the word about strategies for preventing heart disease and encouraging those around you to have their hearts check and commit to heart-healthy lives.