Did you know popular drugs like Ozempic help people lose weight, benefit heart health?

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) -It’s National Heart Health Month and 19 News is #GoRedCle.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., but medical professionals say it’s preventable.

Dr. Ian Neeland, a cardiologist from University Hospitals Harrington Heart & Vascular Institute says that studies show some popular weight loss medications on the market can actually cut the risk of heart problems, like Ozempic.

“It’s only until recently that we have these blockbuster medications on the market for weight loss, and many of them are now approaching with the degree of weight loss that one can achieve even with surgery. And so the medications have many, many benefits. Not only do they help people lose weight, but they improve metabolic health. So they actually can prevent or treat diabetes, they reduce triglycerides and bad cholesterol, and have been shown now to reduce the risk for getting a heart attack or dying from heart disease,” he said.

Dr. Neeland shares that historically, some weight loss drugs increased risk for high blood pressure and other ailments but with research and advancements, things are improving but we still need to be aware.

The Centers for Disease Control reports that One person dies every 33 seconds in the United States from cardiovascular disease.

About 695,000 people in the United States died from heart disease in 202, that’s 1 in every 5 deaths.

“February is Heart Month, but the awareness is year-round. So, you know, please reach out to your doctor or reach out to schedule a visit with preventive cardiology. Here at UH, we have many preventive cardiologist options across the metroplex. And, you know, don’t need to wait till February to do so next February and we have a whole another year. You can do so in any month. We’re always available always open to help you make sure that you get screened for heart disease and treated to prevent anything in the future,” said Dr. Neeland.