Saturday, January 23, 2016

Cardiovascular Screening Woodstock Public Library -- Wednesday February 10

McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) is sponsoring a cardiovascular screening at the Woodstock Public Library in recognition of American Heart Month.  The screening will take place from 9:00AM-11:00AM, Wednesday, February 10 at the Woodstock Public Library, 414 West Judd Street.  Appointments can be made online at www.mcdh.info or by calling 815-334-4852

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 $45. A nursing consult is available once results are received at no additional cost.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 71 million Americans have high cholesterol. Only one out of every three adults with high cholesterol has the condition under control. 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. 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.

If you have high cholesterol, there are no signs or symptoms but it is treatable. Getting your cholesterol checked once every 5 years keeps you knowledgeable about any changes in your levels. It is important to discuss your cholesterol levels with your doctor in order to develop the best plan for your health.

For more information on cardiovascular disease and its risk factors, visit the CDC at http://www.cdc.gov/features/heartmonth/.

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