McHenry
County Department of Health (MCDH) will offer cholesterol screenings in
recognition of February’s American Heart Month. The screening requires a
12-hour fast and includes total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterol, fasting
blood glucose, triglycerides, blood pressure, heart age assessment and
cardiovascular education. The cost is $35. A
nursing consult is available once results are received. Men who are 50 years of
age may also receive a free PSA screening. Appointments are required
(815-334-4082) for the following dates/locations:
9am-11am,
Sat., Feb 7 – Alden-Hebron High School, 9604
Illinois Street, Hebron
9am-11am,
Thurs., Feb 12 – Woodstock Public Library, 414
West Judd Street
6:30am-9:30am,
Thurs., Feb 19 – Sage YMCA, 701 Manor Street,
Crystal Lake
7:30am-9:30am,
Wed., Feb 25 – McHenry Township, 3703 N Richmond
Rd, Johnsburg
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),
about 71 million Americans have high cholesterol. Having high cholesterol puts you at risk for
cardiovascular disease (includes heart disease,
stroke, and high blood pressure) which is the #1 killer of women and men in the
United States. It is also the leading cause of disability, preventing Americans
from working and enjoying family activities. Certain
lifestyles such
as being a smoker, being overweight and lack of exercise can also put people at
a higher risk for developing heart disease.
There are no signs or symptoms of high cholesterol but it can be
treated. Getting your cholesterol checked with a simple blood test is the only
way you can know if you are at risk for high cholesterol or already have high
cholesterol. Knowing your cholesterol level will help your doctor suggest steps
for you to take to prevent high cholesterol or to reduce your levels if they
are high. Quitting
smoking, eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise and maintaining a
healthy weight can keep blood cholesterols down.
For
more information on cardiovascular disease and its risk factors, visit the CDC
at http://www.cdc.gov/features/heartmonth/.
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