Dignity Health | St. Rose Dominican | Reach | Winter 2020

StRoseHospitals.org  5 Knowing key numbers— and working to keep them in a healthy range—can add up to better health. Take these four to heart—your blood pressure, body mass index, cholesterol, and blood sugar. “Preventing heart disease starts with knowing your risk factors,” says Moniz Dawood, MD, a cardiologist who practices at St. Rose Dominican. “Talk with your doctor about what’s healthy for you.” Here’s a look at the target numbers for most adults. Better health by the numbers Why let one more day go by? Have a heart-to-heart with your doctor about your risk of heart disease. Find a caring provider today at StRoseHospitals.org or by calling 702.616.4900 . Blood pressure Target: Systolic less than 120 mm Hg and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg. What it is: The force of blood pushing against your blood vessel walls. Why it matters: High blood pressure raises the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. Body mass index (BMI) Target: 18.5 to 24.9. What it is: A measure of body fat based on your height and weight. Why it matters: The higher your BMI, the greater your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, breathing problems, and certain cancers. Cholesterol Target: Talk with your doctor about what’s optimal for you. It depends on your overall risk factors. What it is: A waxy substance produced in the liver and released into the blood. Why it matters: Unhealthy cholesterol levels raise your risk of heart attack and stroke. Blood sugar Target: A fasting blood sugar of less than 100 mg/dL. What it is: The amount of glucose in your blood. Why it matters: Diabetes occurs—or is poorly managed—when blood sugar levels are too high. Sources: American Diabetes Association; American Heart Association; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; U.S. Preventive Services Task Force