In honor of American Heart Month, we’re highlighting the importance of heart health and empowering our community with trusted information. At the Community Health Center of Asbury Park, Family Nurse Practitioner Dr. Kehinde Ibitola shares expert guidance and answers some of the most common questions about preventing heart disease and maintaining a healthy heart. Learn how small, everyday changes can make a big difference in protecting your heart and improving your overall well-being.
Why is heart health so important?
Heart health is crucial because the heart is the body’s main pump, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your brain, kidneys, and other organs. When your heart is healthy, you have more energy, can stay active, reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke, and are more likely to live longer. An unhealthy heart can lead to high blood pressure, clogged arteries, clots, and damage to other organs.
What are the best ways to maintain a healthy heart?
The best ways to keep your heart healthy include eating balanced meals, staying physically active, avoiding smoking, managing stress, and keeping your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar under control.
How often should people get their heart health checked?
Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are important to monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and other risk factors. Your provider can recommend how often you need screenings based on your age, family history, and overall health.
What should someone do if they are experiencing heart problems or symptoms?
If you experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue, seek medical attention immediately. Prompt evaluation can help prevent serious complications like heart attacks or strokes.
Can lifestyle changes really make a difference in heart health?
Yes! Heart health is strongly influenced by everyday habits. Simple changes like eating a healthy diet, staying active, managing stress, and avoiding smoking can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease and improve your overall well-being.
Dr. Kehinde Ibitola, DNP, FNP-C, BC-ADM
Kehinde Ibitola, is a board-certified family nurse practitioner at VNA Community Health Center Asbury Park, New Jersey. He has about 20 years of experience in several specialties, providing a broad perspective on health care.
Kehinde began his education at Essex County College in Newark, New Jersey, earning his associate’s degree in nursing. Following that, he served at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark, where he cared for pre- and post-heart transplant patients including patients on LVAD.
Dedicated to pursuing higher education, Kehinde later attended Felician University in Rutherford, New Jersey, where he received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Afterward, he worked as an emergency room registered nurse, providing emergency care to a high volume of critically ill patients with physical and psychosocial issues.
Further developing his career, Kehinde earned his master’s degree in nursing from the University of South Alabama. After that, he received his family nurse practitioner certification from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Kehinde earned his doctoral degree in Family Nurse Practitioner from University of South Alabama and holds several other certifications, as well. Kehinde is board certified in advance diabetes management, certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Basic Life Support (BLS), a trauma nurse certification course, and a Drug Enforcement Agency license.
