February is observed as American Heart Month to raise awareness about heart disease and the various ways it can be prevented. One in four deaths are caused by heart disease making it the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. The three major risk factors are high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking. Other risk factors include having diabetes, inactivity, eating an unhealthy diet, obesity and family history.
The good news? In many cases, heart disease can be prevented by making healthier lifestyle choices regarding diet and exercise, and by managing any chronic medical conditions that you may have.
The cardiovascular professionals at Shore Regional Health encourage you to:
- Know your numbers: be aware of your blood pressure and cholesterol levels and consult with your medical provider about ways to keep your numbers within normal limits
- Know the warning signs of a heart attack: the chances of surviving a heart attack are greater the sooner you receive emergency treatment
- And finally, make sure you are receiving proper medical care from a provider you trust.
Various events are planned at UM Shore Regional Health locations to raise awareness about heart health:
Family and Friends CPR – UM Shore Medical Center at Chestertown, Education Center
Tuesday, February 16, 2016, 2-4:30pm
Tuesday, March 16, 2016, 2-4:30pm
RSVP: Sherrie Hill, 410-778-3300, ext. 2222
Refreshments provided. Class size is limited so please RSVP to reserve your spot.
Family and Friends CPR is for people who want to learn CPR, but do not need a CPR course completion card for their job. This course is ideal for family members and friends of persons with medical problems as well as those interested in learning how to save a life.
National Cardiac Rehabilitation Week
Sunday, February 14-Saturday, February 20, 2016
In observation of National Cardiac Rehabilitation Week – which celebrates the life-saving impact of cardiac rehabilitation – the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at UM Shore Medical Centers at Chestertown, Dorchester and Easton will be holding several activities. Cardiac rehabilitation has a vital role in reducing the effects of heart disease and improving quality of life for patients and their families. To learn more about the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program, call:
UM SMC at Chestertown – 410-778-3300, ext. 2222
UM SMC at Dorchester – 410-228-5511, ext. 8201
UM SMC at Easton – 410-822-1000, ext. 5208
Cardiovascular Professionals Week
Sunday, February 14-Saturday, February 20, 2016
Friday, February 12, 2016, 12-1pm, UM Shore Medical Center at Easton, Nick Rajasich Health Education Center – Cardiovascular Professionals Week will kick off with an “Ask the Expert” event for UM Shore Regional Health team members and volunteers with Dr. John Condit of UM Community Medical Group – Cardiology, who will be on hand for Q&A.
Stations will include:
– Cardiology: EKGs
– Respiratory: Pulse ox exams
– Vascular: ABIs
– Cardiac Rehabilitation: Blood pressure screenings and information about the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program
– Sleep Lab: Informational booth
Daily activities will be set up in the cafeteria at UM Shore Medical Center at Easton. A name will be drawn at the end of the week for a prize!