As you settle into the New Year and kick off February’s American Heart Month, now is the perfect time to set or revisit your goals for the year. Doctors Hospital of Manteca is encouraging residents to make heart health a priority.

Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of men and women in America, but there are ways to reduce or eliminate your risk of developing it, such as exercising and eating a healthy diet.

Each year in February, health officials recognize American Heart Month by focusing on ways to improve heart health. Residents can also join in by signing up to receive tips that will include the risks and prevention of heart disease, easy recipes and exercise videos.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 805,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. The most common symptom of a heart attack for both men and women is chest pain or discomfort. However, women are more likely to have atypical symptoms. Other heart attack symptoms include, but are not limited to, tingling or discomfort in one or both arms, back, shoulder, neck or jaw, shortness of breath, cold sweat, unusual tiredness, heartburn-like feeling, nausea or vomiting, sudden dizziness and fainting.

This is also a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on your health screenings. Screenings and check-ups that are often covered by insurance can alert you to health conditions that need addressing sooner rather than later. From knowing your numbers for heart health to a mammogram or colonoscopy, early detection may prevent complications down the road.

Doctors Hospital of Manteca has more than 500 employees and a medical staff of more than 150 physicians and is fully accredited by the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. To learn more about Doctors Hospital of Manteca, visit www.doctorsmanteca.com.