FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 1, 2013
For information contact:
Elizabeth C. Duncan Director of Public Relations
(208) 367-8121— Desk (208) 724-8047—Cell
duncanec@sarmc.org
Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center encourages community to be aware of family’s heart health during Heart Month - February
Heart Disease is leading cause of death in the United States – 2nd in Idaho
Boise, Idaho – February 1, 2013 – In recognition of February being Heart Month, Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center encourages the community to be aware of the warning signs and the steps each of us can take to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Every year, heart disease claims the lives of more than half a million Americans. It remains the leading cause of death in the United States. It is the second leading cause of death among Idahoans. Heart Disease leaves no one untouched; its victims are fathers and daughters, grandparents and siblings, cherished friends and community members across our country.
While genetic or hereditary factors play a part in many instances of cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, physical inactivity, obesity, tobacco use, and alcohol abuse are major risk factors that can be prevented or controlled. Avoiding tobacco, moderating alcohol consumption, and working with a health care provider can also help prevent or treat conditions that can lead to heart disease.
Knowing the warning signs and symptoms of a heart attack is key to preventing death, but many people don’t know the signs. Those signs include chest pain or discomfort, upper body pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw or upper stomach. Additionally shortness of breath, nausea, lightheadedness or cold sweats. If you are experiencing these symptoms it is essential that you seek medical help.
By eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and exercising regularly for at least 30 minutes each day, you can do wonders for your heart. Physicians also encourage all patients to talk to their health care provider about heart care. Talk to him or her about monitoring your blood pressure, testing your cholesterol levels and regularly monitoring your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.
For more information about your heart health go to www.saintalphonsus.org
About Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center
Saint Alphonsus is a 387-licensed bed regional medical center serving people throughout the Northwest. As a not-for-profit medical center, Saint Alphonsus reinvests profits back into the community and works to improve the health and well-being of those we serve by emphasizing care that is patient-centered, innovative and community based. Saint Alphonsus focuses on providing services in a spiritual, healing environment, and is renowned for its state-of-the-art digital environment and pioneering technologies; award-winning clinical services; and the region’s only Level II Trauma Center. Saint Alphonsus is part of Saint Alphonsus Health System, a four-hospital, 714-bed integrated healthcare system serving the full range of the health and wellness needs of the people in southwestern Idaho, eastern Oregon and northern Nevada. Saint Alphonsus Health System is a member of Trinity Health.
For information about Saint Alphonsus visit www.saintalphonsus.org.
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