Will County Health Department Encourages Heart Healthy Lifestyle

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of US deaths and disability. The Will County Health Department believes the month of February is a good time to consider our heart health.

"Fortunately, virtually everyone can dramatically reduce their personal heart disease risk through a healthy lifestyle and excellent control of important cardiovascular risk factors," Vic Riato, Media Services Manager said in a written release.

The path to heart disease often begins early. Obesity and high blood pressure have become epidemic among children and young adults. By exercising regularly, watching your diet and avoiding tobacco, children can develop heart-healthy habits that can protect them from heart attacks and stroke.

In addition to addressing the problem at an early age, the Will County Health Department said women are at a large risk of dying from heart disease.

"One in three American women die of heart disease and national studies suggest that many females know next to nothing about heart health," Riato states in a written release.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for American women, yet, a recent national study endorsed by the US Department of Health and Human Services found that only 57 percent of surveyed females knew that. Additionally, the study indicated most women don't recognize the connection between chronic risk factors (like high blood pressure), and the potential for developing debilitating heart disease.

Heart health is immediately improved by regular exercise, a healther diet
and smoking cessation can help you improve your heart health. The Will County Health Department offers Freedom from Smoking.

"We have about a 75 percent success rate," Riato said.

The class at Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center began in January. The next class takes place in Braidwood. Class times are listed below. To register for a class, call the Will County Health Department at 815-727-8769 or register online at www.willcountyhealth.org.

Fossil Ridge Public Library, Auditorium, 386 W. Kennedy Rd., Braidwood, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

• Session 1: Tuesday, March 12
• Session 2: Tuesday, March 19
• Session 3: Tuesday, March 26
• Session 4: Tuesday, April 2 (Quit Day)
• Session 5: Thursday, April 4 (Follow-up)
• Session 6:  Tuesday, April 9
• Session 7: Tuesday, April 16
• Session 8: Tuesday, April 23

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