A Message from Melinda Laird, CEO/CNO
February is American Heart month and not just for Valentines but for you to focus on your cardiovascular health. Now these two beat as one and today I will provide you with things you can do to keep your heart healthy. I can’t do much for a broken or love sick heart.
You can take an active role in reducing your risk for heart disease by eating a healthy diet engaging in physical activity, and managing your cholesterol and blood pressure. This is your chance to start some healthy habits no matter what your age. The warning signs for heart disease have been known to appear when people are as young as 18.
The three things you can start today to begin your role is reducing your risk for heart disease include:
1) Start a hearthealthy habit, this can be staying active, eating healthy, and watching your weight. Start simple, trade your soda pop for water for a month, just try it.
2) Educate yourself, learn about the risk factors and ways to prevent them. Choose lifestyles that can help you stay heart-healthy.
3) Get your cholesterol test. It’s a simple test your physician can run if you feel you are worried.
Another test you can have is the Heart Scan, a coronary CT calcium scan. This looks specifically for calcium deposits in the coronary arteries that can narrow arteries and increase the risk of heart attack. You will receive a score that is a marker of risk for cardiac events.
This month CMH is providing the Heart Scan at a cost of $60 that is usually $99. You get your results and we can also send to your physician.
The coronary calcium scan is a recognized predictor of future heart problems and helpful in make lifestyle changes and guiding preventive care to reduce heart risk.
Be heart aware during February and know the importance of healthy habits that help reduce your risk of heart disease.
For your health and wellness,
Melinda