(ARA) — Health information has never been more accessible. Many people know what they have to do in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle; yet taking action can sometimes be difficult. One such example is maintaining a healthy heart.

According to a new survey, while nearly two-thirds of adults report one or more risk factors for cardiovascular disease and 87 percent are at least somewhat concerned that they may develop heart disease, many do not take steps that may help them in the fight against this disease.

This survey of more than 2,000 adults, conducted by Harris Interactive for Cheerios, found that 65 percent of U.S. adults reported having at least one heart disease risk factor, including a family history of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking or being overweight/obese. Despite this, more than one-third of adults have not had their cholesterol checked within the past year and just over half of adults do not exercise regularly (at least three times per week).

As for the reasons why some adults did not have their cholesterol checked, 31 percent cited lack of concern about their cholesterol levels, while one in five adults (21 percent) cited lack of health insurance as a barrier to getting screened. Those with limited access to adequate health care may not get regular cholesterol screenings and thus are at an even greater risk of heart disease.

It is important to take action toward living a heart-healthy life. Here are some ways to help prevent heart disease and other heart-related illnesses:

• Keep your cholesterol in check.
• Exercise regularly.
• Eat a heart-healthy diet that includes whole grains.
• Keep tabs on your triglycerides.
• Get your blood pressure checked.
• Quit smoking.
• See your doctor regularly.