Jacksonville, Florida – One person dies from cardiovascular disease every 36 seconds in the United States. More than 500,000 people die from heart disease each year in this country.

February is American Heart Health Month. And efforts are being made to stop one of the country’s biggest killers.

Doctors say there are things we can do to improve our heart health.

The most obvious one is to exercise every day. They recommend getting at least 30 minutes of exercise a day.

It also recommends setting realistic goals and striving to maintain a healthy weight. This promotes overall health and reduces the risk of developing heart disease.

Knowing your numbers is also important. Get an annual health check to make sure your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels are within normal levels.

Related: Why you need to see a doctor even if you are not sick

Doctors say if you smoke, you should quit. This includes the use of e-cigarettes, nicotine-related products. They are responsible for approximately one-third of heart disease-related deaths.

The conclusion is: It is important that people take an active role in their own health and well-being.