Did you know that according to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease, heart disease and stroke, remains the leading cause of death exceeding 17.3 million deaths per year? Alarmingly that number is expected to rise to 23.6 million by 2030.

A recent study showed starting an exercise program as late as age 65 can improve your heart health. As the body ages, the heart stiffens which can lead to heart failure. It was determined that individuals aged 45-64 were able to reduce the effects of decades of a sedentary lifestyle by merely exercising 4-5 times a week for a period of 2 years. The study showed that this age group actually improved the structure of their heart to that of a 30 year old. While it is easy to become sedentary this time of year, exercise including walking your dog, playing with your grandchildren as well as a physician approved exercise regimen may not only improve your heart health but provide overall health benefits as well.

**Study completed by Dr. Levine, UT Southwestern Researcher