Dr. Süreyya Uygun, Cardiologist at Mersin Sistem Surgical Medical Center, emphasized that heart health should never be neglected, stating that hypertension, diabetes, smoking, alcohol consumption, high cholesterol, a sedentary lifestyle, and excess weight pose serious threats to cardiovascular health.

Dr. Süreyya Uygun warned citizens about heart health and explained the necessary steps to maintain a healthy heart. Emphasizing that heart health should never be ignored, Dr. Uygun said:
“Excess weight is one of the most important factors that threaten heart health. To have a healthy heart, you must absolutely get rid of your excess weight. Especially when abdominal fat is reduced, it lowers blood pressure and decreases the size of the heart.”
Dr. Uygun added that even without medication, simply reducing salt consumption can help bring high blood pressure back to normal levels.

ATTENTION TO DIABETES

Dr. Uygun pointed out that diabetes also negatively affects heart health, stating:
“To protect heart health, blood sugar, good and bad cholesterol, and blood pressure levels must be maintained within certain limits. Especially pregnant women, overweight individuals, and those over 40 years of age must regularly monitor their blood sugar. Diabetes is one of the biggest enemies of the heart, and even in the absence of symptoms, everyone should have their blood sugar checked at least once a year.”

QUIT SMOKING

Highlighting that smoking is one of the main causes of arteriosclerosis and a major risk factor for heart disease, Dr. Uygun said:
“Prolonged smoking can lead to coronary artery narrowing and heart muscle disease, independent of arteriosclerotic constriction. Research has proven that cigarette smoke has a direct toxic effect on the heart muscle. Even passive smokers are exposed to the same risks. Therefore, people who do not smoke should also avoid being in environments where smoking occurs.”