Thursday, February 9th, 2012

Make February a Heart-Healthy Month

Don’t let this tough economy allow you to ignore your health, especially your heart’s health. I want to alert you to a tremendous opportunity that will be good for your heart and easy on your wallet.

Take Steps To A Healthy Heart Today!

During the month of February, MetroSouth Medical Center is offering $30 heart checkups for those who can’t afford regular preventative checkups. This “Heart Healthy Exam” is discounted from is original value of more than $200.

So why take the time to get screened? The answer’s easy. Early detection of heart disease helps save lives.

The “Heart Healthy Exam” includes a series of tests, including an electrocardiogram (EKG)-monitored exercise test, blood pressure test, and blood work to measure cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose levels. Percentage of body fat will be measured and participants will receive a report summarizing their cardiac risk factors. Anyone signing up for the blood tests will have to fast for at least 10 hours prior to the exam.

So who’s at risk for heart disease?

Friends or family members with diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of heart disease, those who smoke or are overweight, or those who frequently experience shortness of breath are at risk.

Knowing your specific risks and having a treatment plan is the first step.  Please get screened. It could save your life.

To get started, schedule your “Healthy Heart Exam,” by calling 708-597-2000, ext. 5615.

Also, during February, MetroSouth will introduce a “Know Your Numbers by Heart” campaign, which  will kick off with a heart-healthy celebration, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 6, in the lobby of MSMC, 12935 S. Gregory St., Blue Island. Andy Avalos, NBC5 meteorologist and Jeanne Sparrow, WCIU-TV’s morning host of “You and Me This Morning”, are among the celebrities who will “meet and greet” people at the event. They will share their heart-healthy numbers along with other noted dignitaries, including:  Donald Peloquin, Mayor of Blue Island; Patrick Kitching, Mayor of Alsip; and Senator Ed Maloney.

The event will include complimentary heart screenings (cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and body mass index, value $40), refreshments, healthy food from local restaurants and raffle prizes.  A free-will donation will also be taken for the American Heart Association.

To register for the event, call: 708-489-7927 or visit www.metrosouthmedicalcenter.com.

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