February is American Heart Month; NCHD offers free health screenings

February is American Heart Health Month and a perfect time to have a free health screening.

Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death in Colorado, including in northeast Colorado. Every hour in Colorado, approximately one person dies from CVD, and annually it claims the lives of more than all forms of cancer and chronic lower respiratory disease combined. High blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking are all key risk factors that can lead to CVD. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about half of Americans exhibit at least one of these risk factors.

To combat this, the Northeast Colorado Health Department offers the Colorado Heart Healthy Solutions program to reduce the risk of CVD in its six-county region. These 30-40 minute free screenings offer individuals 18 and older with immediate results for:

—Cholesterol check.

— Blood sugar readings (those with diabetes, will receive an instant A1C check).

— Blood pressure test.

— Individual risk assessment for developing heart disease over the next 10 years.

Screenings also include:

— Mental health screening.

— Follow-up counseling and additional screenings if needed.

— Educational information on how to improve heart health.

The program is not only designed for individuals but also for employers seeking to add a cost-effective wellness program for their employees. Program staff will go to your location, set up in an office and send out an email letting employees know screenings are available — it’s that simple.

During the month of February, NCHD will offer free screenings to the public at the following locations and dates, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

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