Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Maryland, accounting for 25% of all deaths. Sadly, in St. Mary’s County our numbers are even higher than state averages.

The good news?

Heart disease can often be prevented when people make healthy choices and manage their health conditions. Through lifestyle changes like smoking cessation, healthy eating, exercise, and managing diabetes, blood pressure and stress, you can greatly reduce your chance of heart disease.

This year, make control your goal!

Use the resources below to help you control your diabetes, blood pressure or other habits that increase your risk.

Smoking Cessation

• Tobacco Cessation Program – St. Mary’s County Health Department
• Maryland Tobacco Quitline – 1-800-QUIT-NOW.
• SmokeFree.Gov

Healthy Eating

• Simple Changes Program – MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital
• MyPlate Tools & Resources
• CDC Healthy Eating for a Healthy Weight

Physical Activity

• Local Parks, Playgrounds and Programs – St. Mary’s County Recreation and Parks
• Let’s Move Initiative
• CDC Physical Activity Guide

Managing Diabetes

• Diabetes Self Management Program – MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital
• CDC Managing Diabetes
• National Institute of Health – 4 Steps to Manage Your Diabetes for Life

Controlling Blood Pressure

• Chronic Disease Self Management Program – MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital
• CDC – Controlling Blood Pressure
• American Heart Association – Prevention and Treatment of High Blood Pressure