Health District sets American Heart Month

VW independent/submitted information

Heart disease and stroke cause 1 in 3 deaths among women each year, killing approximately one woman every 80 seconds. Fortunately, people have the power to change that, because 80 percent of cardiac and stroke events may be prevented with education and action.

To prevent heart disease and increase awareness of its effects, Van Wert County General Health District is participating in American Heart Month. In 2013, the leading cause of death in Van Wert was heart disease, accounting for 22 percent of deaths. In 2015, approximately 31 percent of adults in Van Wert County were affected by high blood pressure.

High blood pressure is a common cause of heart disease and stroke, so it is important to check one’s blood pressure. The Van Wert County General Health District will be offering free blood pressure readings to any adult every Wednesday, from 10 a.m. to noon, during the month of February. The Health District’s mission is to promote and to protect the health and well-being of the community.

National Wear Red Day® is Friday, February 3.

Why Go Red?

Local residents can make healthy changes to lower their risk of developing heart disease. Controlling and preventing risk factors is also important for people who already have heart disease.

To lower the risk:

• Watch one’s weight.
• Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.
• Control cholesterol and blood pressure.
• Those who drink alcohol should drink only in moderation.
• Get active and eat healthy.