Nearly a quarter of African-Americans will die of heart disease

Nearly 1-in-4 African-American men in the United States will die of heart disease and almost half have high blood pressure, researchers say. Dr. J. Nadine Gracia, deputy assistant secretary for minority health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, said the data showed minority men face health challenges that could be tackled through straightforward lifestyle changes. "Simple steps, like eating healthier options -- more fruit and vegetables -- limiting alcohol intake and getting more exercise all contribute to having a healthy lifestyle," Gracia said. All men should get at least 30 minutes of moderate-to-intense exercise a day, she said. "When you pair exercises that help elevate your heart rate with at least two activities to help strengthen your muscles, you're getting closer to good health and avoiding the top diseases that have sidelined so many men too early in life."