Heart Health Matters: A Call to Farmers and Rural Communities

When it comes to taking care of the farm, most of us don’t skip a beat. But taking care of ourselves—especially our hearts—is often overlooked. Tawnie Larson, Program Manager with the Kansas Agricultural Safety and Health Program at Kansas State University, is helping amplify the importance of heart health for those in agriculture through a national campaign called Live to the Beat.

“Male farmers aged 45 and older have an increased risk of heart disease compared to their non-farming peers and friends. I think a lot of that is because of the stresses that are on people that work in agriculture. A lot of things are out of our control.”

Women in rural areas also face a higher risk.

“It is important for everyone to keep track of what their blood pressure is on a regular basis. So maybe that starts with a baseline with their primary care doctor and then they can take their own blood pressure on a regular basis, maybe with a cuff at home or perhaps evem popping in to the doctor’s office or to a pharmacy to get their blood pressure taken. And if they’re concerned, then they can reach out to their doctor for a follow up.”

She stresses the importance of having a “primary care doctor.” If you don’t have one, get one. Healthy choices help, and this season’s fresh fruits and vegetables are a great way to start feeling better and staying active.