A recent study showed that just by walking, you can significantly increase your chances of living longer.

As we consider February’s American Heart Month activities for good heart health, a group of parents would like for you to also be aware of their battles fought by their children with heart issues.

San Antonio teen Isaiah Lucio enjoys doing the things that most kids his age like to do. The 13-year-old likes spending time with family and friends, playing video games and loves basketball, especially the Spurs.

February is American Heart Month. During this time, it is important to understand, prevent and treat heart disease, which is the leading cause of death across our country.

How’s your heart?

When it comes to the human body, it goes without saying that our hearts are incredibly important.

While COVID-19 and the flu still linger around, you may not even be thinking about the possibility of a bad heart. In fact, 72 percent of Americans don’t consider themselves at risk for heart disease. One study found people with high frequency hearing loss, caused by exposure to high-decibel noise, had nearly twice the risk of heart disease. “The bacteria can affect your heart, your lungs, many systems of the body,” said Larry Lieberman, DDS, at Dental Arts of Palm Harbor. High consumers were 20 percent more likely to have cardiovascular disease at any particular time than those who didn’t drink.

With February being American Heart Month, there is a new campaign, “Don’t Die of Doubt”, which emphasizes symptoms of heart attack and stroke, need to access care by calling 9-1-1 even during the COVID-19 pandemic. People can receive safe care for heart attack or stroke symptoms, and other urgent medical needs, in hospitals. When it comes to surviving a heart attack or a stroke, seconds count, and so doubting symptoms, and thereby delaying care, may prove deadly. AdWarning signs of a heart attack, courtesy of Heart.orgChest discomfort. Use the letters in “F.A.S.T.” to spot stroke signs and know when to call 9-1-1, courtesy of stroke.orgFace dropping.

Since February is American Heart Month, KSAT is trying to help make people aware of their heart health. “My father had just turned 55 when he had the one heart attack that took his life,” Stewart said. Though heart disease can be genetic and come in many forms, it also may be preventable. “Unfortunately, with what diabetes does, it is one of the major risk factors for heart disease. If you have any questions on heart health, there are resources easily available at the American Heart Association.

How familiar are you with proper heart health? February is American Heart Month, a time when all people can focus on their cardiovascular health. What better time to learn about your health, improve your health or work toward becoming your best self? It could start with this quiz, below. Test your heart health knowledge today.