Saturday, Jan. 31 at UMES

Tri-county go red event
Student Services Center Ballroom, UMES,
Princess Anne; 9 a.m.-noon. For women who
want to learn their risks of heart disease and
get tips on how to help each other live longer,
stronger and healthier lives. There will be health
screenings, speakers and vendors. The event is
free to all and includes a free continental breakfast.
Info: call Dawn at 410-641-9268

Tri-County Alliance of Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties present Go Red for Women (Check out the video)

by Mimi Dean, MS, Worcester County Health Department

Coronary artery disease, according to the American Heart Association, is “public enemy number 1”.    It is the number one cause of death for both men and women, and claims the lives of nearly 500,000 women a year.  Thirty-eight percent of women, compared with twenty-five percent of men will die within one year after a heart attack.  Surprisingly, the American Heart Association states, “ misperceptions still exist that cardiovascular disease is not a real problem for national call for women to take charge of their heart health and live stronger, healthier lives. 

Coronary artery disease involves the steady build up of blockages, also referred to as plaque, in the blood vessels that supply the heart with blood flow.  Many factors influence whether plaque will build up in these blood vessels.  This includes both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors.  Non-modifiable risk factors are things that you cannot control and include age, gender, and family history.  Race can also influence the development of other risk factors for heart disease including high blood pressure and diabetes. 

Modifiable or lifestyle related risk factors for heart disease include the following;

·        Cigarette smoking: Smokers are twice as likely to develop heart disease as non-smokers.  Smokers who have a heart attack are more likely to die and die suddenly from a heart attack.  For help to quit smoking please contact your local health department or health care provider.

·        High Blood Pressure: High blood pressure is defined as a resting blood pressure greater than or equal to 140/90 on two or more separate occasions.  It is diagnosed by a physician and is often called the “silent killer” as typically there are no physical symptoms and untreated high blood pressure can lead to heart attack, stroke, or even death.  Get your blood pressure checked and follow your health care provider’s recommendations for controlling your blood pressure.  A desirable blood pressure is a resting blood pressure less than 120/80.

·        High Cholesterol:  High levels of LDL “bad” cholesterol, low levels of HDL “ good” cholesterol, and high levels of triglycerides can increase your chances of developing heart disease.  If you have never had your cholesterol levels checked, ask your health care provider for a fasting lipid profile.  Eating a low cholesterol, low fat, low sodium diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly dark green, leafy vegetables, can help decrease one’s chances of developing heart disease. 

·        Stress:  Individuals that perceive themselves to be under “chronic” stress are at an increased risk for developing heart disease. Learn and practice positive self- management techniques such as physical activity, deep breathing, or positive self-talk.

·        Diabetes: Diabetes is considered to be a “risk equivalent” for heart disease meaning that individuals that have diabetes are just as likely to have a heart attack as someone who has already had a heart attack.  Keeping blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels in good control, participating in regular physical activity and not smoking can help diabetic individuals decrease their chances of developing heart disease.

·        Lack of physical activity: Adults should try to accumulate a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, such as brisk walking, on most days of the week. 

Coronary artery disease can lead to heart attack, stroke, and even death.  Women can have very different signs and symptoms of heart disease than men.  If you have risk factors for heart disease, talk to your health care provider about getting screened. 

Signs and symptoms of a heart attack include chest discomfort, radiating pain, increased shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and lightheadedness.  If you experience any of these signs and symptoms of a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Jump Into January

Have a few leftovers from the holidays?