February- American Heart Month

Know your heart numbers
Please see your doctor about these important tests:

• HDL (high density lipoprotein) –your “good” cholesterol. For men under 40 and women under 50, these numbers should be between 40 to 60.*
• LDL (low density lipoprotein) – your “bad” cholesterol. This number should be below 100.*
  Total cholesterol numbers should be below 200.*
• BMI (body mass index) –a measure of body fat based on height and weight. BMI numbers should be between 18.5-24.9.’
• Blood pressure – the top number is the pressure when your heart is pumping (systolic). This number should be below 120. The bottom number is the pressure when your heart is at rest (diastolic). This number should be below 80.
• A1C (Diabetes) – a reading of how well your diabetes is controlled over a 2-3 month period. The Hemoglobin A1C number should be 6%. The fasting blood sugar number should be 70-99. You should get this test if you have diabetes or think you have diabetes. Diabetes is also a risk factor for heart disease.

* These test numbers should be slightly lower for individuals with certain heart-related risk factors.

How can AmeriHealth Mercy help me if I have a heart condition?

AmeriHealth Mercy Health Plan is your partner in helping you and your family have a healthy and active life. AmeriHealth Mercy has a program that will help you understand your heart condition.
Please visit the AmeriHealth Mercy Heart Failure Care Coordination page for more information