Three billion. That’s the amazing number of times our hearts beat during an average lifespan. This fist-sized muscle pushes swimming pools of blood throughout our bodies, even when we’re working hard, working out or not working at all.

Cardiac health care – like all health care – keeps changing with the times. Yet heart disease remains the No. 1 killer of adults worldwide.

We all want to prevent potentially fatal events like stroke and heart attack and we all play a role in our own health. The basics are not new to us:

• Get more exercise — about 150 minutes a week, or 30 minutes five days a week

• Quit tobacco

• Eat better, including lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and less red meat

• See a doctor regularly to ensure your blood pressure and cholesterol levels are under control

Heart care is always changing and evolving for better outcomes. So let’s look at some successes that can give us motivation this February.

Heart Health and Mental Wellness

Much of our knowledge on heart health is based on scientific studies that have showed how much our behaviors matter. New studies continue to provide more facts.

Studies show we should consider not just what we do, eat and how we live, but how we feel. Psychosocial aspects of our lives, including depression, anxiety and loneliness, can impact that vital organ that keeps us going. Angry people tend to have more heart attacks. Talk to your primary care provider if you’re concerned about how your mental health might impact your heart.

Testing Methods That Focus on You

Common tests like blood pressure and cholesterol screenings help you understand your risk for heart disease. Depending on your age and situation, your doctor might recommended further testing to learn about your risks and how you can control them.

If you’re having symptoms, a number of precise diagnostic tools are available. No two hearts are the same, so be sure you talk to your doctor about your own heart health and what tests might be recommended for you.

Technologies That Save Lives and Add Years

A number of cardiac and vascular procedures use devices which are ever improving with the latest medical science. This includes medication-treated stents, which hold blood vessels open, but also use the chemicals to help keep blockage away for years to come. People with heart disease that reaches an emergency level can avoid the worst outcomes with these tiny medical miracles.

Those devices are sometimes smaller than a millimeter in scope, but another tech marvel might be on your wrist or in your hands right now. Wearable smart watches and of course our phones can give information about heart rate or help us manage diet and exercise. Putting these tools to use — for better heart health — is no harder than adding an app.

Be it meal planning, exercise schedules or adding a health-related app to your phone – please start today to keep your heart healthier. Your loved ones will be happy you did.

— Debbie Streier is regional president/CEO of Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center