The ART in FIRE

A Dose of Health
FEBRUARY IS HEART HEALTH MONTH

Almost 700,000 people die of heart disease each year in the United States. It is the leading cause of death in both men and women. Don’t become another statistic!
The cardiovascular system is made up of the heart and blood vessels. Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), as defined by the American Heart Association, include coronary heart disease (coronary artery disease, ischemic heart disease); stroke (brain attack); high blood pressure (hypertension); and rheumatic heart disease.
About 62 million US adults have one or more forms of CVD.
Each year in the US, cardiovascular diseases top the list of most serious health problems. Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death and stroke is the third leading cause of death. Stroke is also the number one cause of serious, long-term disability.
Yet, studies show that nearly everyone can become heart healthy by following a healthful diet and participating in an appropriate exercise program; eliminating tobacco products; and following a routine health care plan.
Most important to toppling cardiovascular diseases as the number one cause of disability and death, is early detection and early treatment.
Every 29 seconds an American suffers a heart attack. Screening study using 64-slice CT scanner can show early signs of heart disease.

People who should consider undergoing screening:
o    History of smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes
o    Family history of heart disease
o    Occasional chest pains
o    Men ages 45-75 and women ages 55-75
Screening doesn’t require doctor’s order so if you think you might be showing signs of heart disease get yourself screened.  There is a local facility available to perform this study, it is Visalia Imaging & Open MRI. You can contact them at 734-5674 for more information.