Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to remind everyone again this year that February is Heart Month, an opportunity for all Canadians to learn about the risk of heart disease and stroke and for the Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation to raise funds for life-giving research.
Heart disease describes many heart conditions. Coronary artery disease is the most common of these and occurs when blood vessels in your heart become blocked, preventing oxygen-rich blood from reaching your heart. It can cause chest pains or even a heart attack.
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. This can cause weakness, loss of speech and paralysis which can be permanent. Heart disease and stroke are the leading cause of hospitalization and two of the three leading causes of death in Canada.
The good news is, with the right lifestyle changes, up to 80 percent of premature heart disease and stroke is preventable. Since nine out of 10 Canadians have at least one risk factor for these serious illnesses, this means that almost all of us have a good reason to make a positive change in our lives.
Things that each of us can do include eating a healthy diet, follow the recommendations from Canada’s Food Guide, be physically active. Thirty minutes most days of the week is all it takes. Quit smoking, not only will you feel better, you’ll save money. Manage stress, identify what causes your stress. Talk to friends and family and take time for yourself. Limit alcohol consumption. Better yet, cut out alcohol altogether and lead a traditional lifestyle. The lifestyle of a Dene elder is a very healthy one and we can learn a lot from people who live that way. Stay active by hunting, cutting wood and being out on the land and eating more traditional foods and less pre-packaged junk food.
There are some health issues that we cannot control. When it comes to heart disease and stroke, however, we can make small changes that will keep us healthier and living longer.
I wish all my constituents and people across the NWT success with whatever changes they make to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke and a healthy Heart Month. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. Nadli. Member for Frame Lake, Ms. Bisaro.
