Cardiovascular disease is a general term that is used to describe diseases and conditions of the heart and blood vessels. In an effort to keep our members healthy, Dean Health Plan has endorsed the Wisconsin Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Initiatives Guideline, the Cardiovascular Disease Treatment Guideline. The guideline addresses the prevention of cardiovascular events in people who have cardiovascular disease or those who are at risk. The guideline includes the following recommendations:

• Eat healthy foods. To keep your heart healthy, include fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products in your diet.
• Control blood pressure. Men and women should have their blood pressure checked at least once every one to two years. The blood pressure goal should be lower than 140/90 mm Hg (lower than 130/80 mm Hg for people with diabetes).
• Get a lipid test. Men and women should have their low-density lipoprotein, or “bad,” cholesterol; highdensity lipoprotein, or “good,” cholesterol; and triglyceride levels checked. Depending on the results, have them rechecked periodically.
• Maintain a healthy weight. Your primary care practitioner (PCP) can help you determine a weight that is appropriate for you.
• Quit tobacco. Anyone who uses tobacco products should quit. Call the Wisconsin Tobacco Quit Line at 877-270-STOP (877-270-7867) or refer to your Schedule of Benefits for tobacco-cessation benefits.

Please talk with your PCP about your risk for cardiovascular disease and how certain lifestyle modifications may be beneficial for your cardiovascular health.

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