If you only do one thing for your heart this year, do this: know your numbers.
Blood pressure. Cholesterol. Blood sugar. Weight. Sleep. These aren’t “doctor stats.” They’re the dashboard lights for your body—signals that tell you what’s working and what needs attention before a crisis hits.
For union members and working families, proactive heart care matters because it protects what you’ve built: your ability to provide, show up, and enjoy life beyond the job. And for union leaders, it’s a reminder that strong benefits only matter when people actually use them.
The big four numbers to know
1) Blood pressure
High blood pressure often has no symptoms, but it quietly strains arteries and the heart over time. It increases risk for heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and heart failure.
Action: Get it checked regularly—at your annual exam, pharmacy kiosk, or a workplace health event.
2) Cholesterol (lipids)
Cholesterol isn’t “good” or “bad” by itself—it’s about balance and overall risk. LDL (“bad”) can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries; HDL (“good”) can be protective.
Action: Ask for a lipid panel at your annual visit and talk through what your results mean for you.
3) Blood sugar / A1C
Prediabetes and diabetes significantly raise the risk of heart disease. The goal isn’t shame—it’s awareness and support.
Action: Screening is simple, and early intervention is powerful.
4) Weight and waist circumference
This isn’t about appearance. It’s about metabolic health and heart workload. Visceral fat (around the abdomen) is associated with increased risk.
Action: Track trends—not perfection. Small changes compound.
Why the annual exam is your heart’s best safety net
Your annual exam is where small problems get caught early—when they’re fixable and affordable. It’s also where you can ask for help in ways people often forget:
- “I want a plan to lower my blood pressure.”
- “I’m worried because heart disease runs in my family.”
- “I snore and I’m always tired—could it be sleep apnea?”
- “I want help quitting smoking.”
- “I’m under serious stress and it’s affecting my health.”
Preventive care isn’t just testing. It’s guidance, planning, and a reset.
The most underrated heart-health moves
Move your body in “real life” ways.
A perfect gym plan isn’t required. Walking, climbing stairs, and short strength routines count. A strong heart loves consistency more than intensity.
Protect your sleep like it’s medicine.
Sleep affects blood pressure, cravings, hormones, and recovery. If you snore loudly, stop breathing at night, or wake up exhausted—ask about a sleep evaluation.
Take medications without guilt.
If you need blood pressure meds or cholesterol meds, that’s not failure. That’s prevention. The right medication can protect you while you build healthier habits.
Your heart-care challenge for this week
Pick one:
- Schedule your annual physical
- Check your blood pressure twice this week
- Take three 20-minute walks
- Prep one heart-friendly meal (lean protein + fiber + vegetables)
- Ask your doctor about your family history and risk
Union strength is built one member at a time. Start with your heart.
