Just 1.2% of Americans met all 7 cardiovascular health metrics from 2005 to 2010, compared to 2% from 1988 to 1994, researchers reported this week in JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association). Although some factors have improved, such as smoking rates, others have not, the authors explained.

The study, said to include a nationally representative population sample, found that among nearly 44,959 adults who met at least seven of the recommended American Heart Association's cardiovascular health behaviors, their risk of death was considerably lower compared to those who met fewer behaviors.

More...