More American women die from heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases each year than from all forms of cancer – including breast cancer – making heart disease the single leading cause of death for women in the U.S.

Cardiologist Dr. Karla Kurrelmeyer of the Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center in Houston, Texas, shares some heart health tips for women in honor of American Heart Month.

She says exercising and staying physically fit is the most important thing women can do to benefit their cardiovascular health. "Every woman should work exercise into her lifestyle. Find something you enjoy doing, and do it regularly and often," she says.

Dr. Kurrelmeyer also recommends women follow the Mediterranean diet, which is high in fish and fresh vegetables, and low in processed carbohydrates to promote heart health.

Women should have their cholesterol checked each year, starting at age 20, especially if they have a family history of heart disease or stroke.

If they have a family history of these diseases as well as other risk factors, Dr. Kurrelmeyer suggests getting an initial, thorough heart check at age 40. If there is no family history, she suggests women get their hearts checked at age 50.