Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and is a major cause of disability. More than 600,000 people die of heart disease in the U.S. each year. That is 1 in every 4 of all U.S. deaths. In addition, heart disease is a leading cause of disability in the U.S. According to the American Heart Association, all cardiovascular diseases together were projected to cost $444.2 billion in 2010, including health care services, medications, and lost productivity.
One of the biggest risk factors for heart disease is high blood pressure. Reduced dietary sodium levels can help control blood pressure. Food and drink manufacturers should be required to limit the amount of sodium used in their products.