Life's Essential Eight: Simple Steps to Prevent Heart Disease

In observance of American Heart Month 2026, Dr. Maurice Selby welcomes leading cardiologist and epidemiologist Donald Lloyd-Jones to Health in Harlem** for an in-depth, evidence-based discussion on cardiovascular health, prevention science, and what our community can do right now to reduce heart disease risk. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, disproportionately impacting Black and other marginalized communities. In this powerful and accessible conversation, Dr. Lloyd-Jones breaks down: The current state of cardiovascular disease in America Why prevention must begin early and across the lifespan The science behind the Life’s Essential 8 framework The critical role of blood pressure control, cholesterol management, diabetes prevention, nutrition, physical activity, sleep health, and tobacco cessation How community-based education and health literacy can change outcomes Drawing from decades of research—including data from the landmark Framingham Heart Study—this episode connects foundational science with practical strategies our listeners can implement in their daily lives. As always, Health in Harlem strives to provide reliable, evidence-based information grounded in public health best practices and evidence-based medicine, while empowering communities with tools to improve long-term health outcomes. You can listen live on WHCR 90.3 FM or stream the podcast version wherever you get your podcasts. 🔗 Resources & Links Learn More About Health in Harlem Health in Harlem Podcast: https://healthinharlem.podbean.com WHCR 90.3 FM: https://www.whcr.org American Heart Month 2026 American Heart Month (NIH/NHLBI): https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/education/american-heart-month Life’s Essential 8 Life’s Essential 8 Overview (American Heart Association): https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/lifes-essential-8