Free community health screenings to test for hypertension

Strong cardiology practice offers ‘What’s Your Number’ program

October 27, 2004

WHAT:  Free health screenings to test for hypertension

WHEN:  9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 30

WHERE:  Strong Cardiology Associates, Clinton Crossings, 2400 S. Clinton Ave., Building G

REGISTER:  (585) 341-7704 to make an appointment. Registration is required.

Gladys Velarde, M.D., of Strong Cardiology Associates, and her staff, along with the National Hypertension Association and AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, will hold a free “What’s Your Number?” health screening Oct. 30 to make community members aware of their blood pressure numbers and the risks associated with hypertension.

Screenings will be scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 30, at Strong Cardiology Associates, Clinton Crossings, 2400 S. Clinton Ave., Building G. Registration is required.

Participants will receive a blood pressure check, an electrocardiogram (EKG) and a blood glucose test as part of the screening process, which will take about 30 minutes.

The National Hypertension Association’s “What’s Your Number?” screening initiative is part of a national program aimed at raising awareness in local communities about the risks of high blood pressure. It is supported by an educational grant from AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals.

Some facts about hypertension:

·        High blood pressure is the most common cause of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. Blood pressure measurement is the only way to detect hypertension.

·        An estimated 50 million Americans have high blood pressure – one in four adults.

·        High blood pressure is known as the “silent killer” because most people have no symptoms of the disease.

·        High blood pressure accelerates hardening of the arteries and can cause stroke, heart attack, heart failure and kidney failure. It disables more than 1 million Americans each year.

·        All Americans should have their blood pressure checked at least twice a year.