Your heart does more than keep you alive – it fuels every part of your well-being.

In this Q&A, Dr. Peter Barclay, WellSpan cardiologist, explores why cardiovascular health is essential to living longer and feeling better, the most common risk factors for heart disease and the simple, powerful habits – like walking – that can strengthen both heart and mind.

Q: Why is cardiovascular health so important for well-being?
A: Cardiovascular health and well-being are intricately intertwined. Taking care of your heart benefits other systems in ways that promote overall improvements in health, well-being and longevity. 

Q: What are the most common risk factors for heart disease, and how can people proactively manage them?
A: The most common risk factors include:

• High blood pressure.
• Diabetes.
• High cholesterol.
• Genetic factors.
• Smoking.

These factors cannot be managed if a patient is not aware they exist. Patients should see their physician or advanced practice provider regularly to screen for potential risks before they become problems. The primary care team is very important in helping to address hypertension, diabetes and cholesterol issues.

Smoking is also detrimental to heart health. There are several smoking termination programs available. Seek more information from your physician or cardiologist.

Q: How does regular exercise specifically benefit the heart and the circulatory system?
A: Regular exercise reduces the risk of coronary disease. Blood pressure is improved, diabetes is improved or avoided and peripheral vascular disease is reduced. Exercise keeps your heart happy. 

Q: Are there particular exercises or routines you recommend for individuals at different stages of heart health?
A: Walking! It’s free, available to everyone and it works.  If able, incorporate resistance activities like lifting weights, or mobility work like yoga.  All new activity should be discussed with a physician and implemented when it's safe to do so with the guidance of a patient's care team.

Q: How does cardiovascular activity affect mental health?
A: Exercise improves mental well-being, depression, anxiety and cognitive function. Getting enough sleep for our bodies to rest and recover is also critical for improving mental health.

Q: How can incorporating walking or light cardio into daily life make a meaningful difference for long-term heart health?
A: 150 minutes of moderate level activity per week helps your body feel better, reduces cardiac risk, dementia, diabetes and prolongs life. 150 minutes divided by 7 days a week is less than 22 minutes a day. If you plan for 5 days a week, 30 minutes of exercise could be broken into two 15 minute sessions per day.

Q: How do you encourage patients to stay motivated and consistent with heart-healthy habits?
A: Patients who walk and stay active are guaranteed to feel better. I’ve never had a patient say to me after starting a walking program ‘I didn’t care for that’ or ‘I felt worse after I started walking more.’ Everyone tends to say they feel great and they're glad they started exercising. Having a partner or group to walk with is beneficial and adds a social component.

Q: What are some questions patients ask about their heart health?
A: We answer many questions about:

• Medical therapy.
• Nutrition.
• Sleep.
• Exercise.

Q: Do patients tell you why they attend Walk & Talk events? If so, what’s their reason?
A: They enjoy the company with other patients and sharing stories about their cardiovascular journeys. The one-on-one time with the doctor and rehabilitation team is appreciated. Overall, it’s an interactive exercising event that brings patients and physicians together to walk and socialize.

Q: What’s one actionable tip participants can take home from a Walk & Talk event that immediately benefits their cardiovascular health?
A: Take the first step even if it’s a small one. Start a pattern and develop a habit. Start in short increments and continue adding time.  Walking and staying active have enormous benefits for cardiovascular health. People who walk and stay active feel better, have fewer health problems, and live longer. 

How healthy is your heart? Find out by taking the assessment.