Officials to Illinois: Treat hearts well

SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Department of Public Health is urging citizens to pamper their pumpers during February — American Heart Month.

Officials say men and women should learn the signs of the nation's No. 1 killer, heart disease.

Public Health Director Dr. Damon Arnold says a heart-healthy diet, exercise, and stopping smoking can prevent heart disease and other conditions such as diabetes.

People should also be physically active, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, maintain a proper weight, monitor blood pressure, reduce stress and tension and limit intake of alcohol and caffeine.

It's often considered a "man's disease." But federal officials say women account for nearly 50 percent of all heart disease deaths.