February is heart month. The Critical Illness Benefit Society (CIBS) team encourages members to take this opportunity to read our recent health and wellness tips, compliments of Alberta Health Services.

A heart-healthy lifestyle is important for everyone, not just those with existing health problems.

If you already have heart or blood vessel problems, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure, a healthy lifestyle can help you manage those problems. 

Be Tobacco Free

 Reducing or quitting tobacco use is one of the most important things you can do for your health.

Tobacco use is still the number one cause of preventable death and disability world-wide and is linked to many illnesses, including heart attack, stroke, diabetes, pulmonary disease and many others. 

When you quit using tobacco, no matter how old you are, you will decrease your risk of these health problems. 

For help with quitting, see below:
• Make Your Move to Becoming Tobacco Free
• Alberta Quits

Get Active  

 Increasing your physical activity is good for your heart and blood vessels, as well as the rest of your body. Being active helps lower your risk of health problems and helps you feel good. 

For more information about being active, see below:
• Make your move to getting active
• Fitness: Getting and Staying Active 
• Fitness: Adding More Activity to Your Life 
• Healthy Muscles 

Know Your Risk – Heart Disease Risk Calculator 

A Heart Disease Risk Calculator is now available to tell you your heart age and chances of having a heart attack or stroke in the next 10 years. If are over 30 years of age, try this calculator to find out your heart age and what can be done to reduce your risk.  

This risk assessment looks at your age, blood cholesterol levels, blood pressure and family history to calculate your risk score.

To find out more and to calculate your heart risk see below:
• Heart Disease Risk Calculator

A life-threatening illness can strike a REALTORS^® at any age and at any time during your career. CIBS offers a one-time, tax-free benefit of $12,500 for CREB^® members who are facing hardships associated with medical costs due to a life-threatening illness.

Click here for more information on CIBS.