Take care of yourself during Healthy Heart Month

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Stefanie Torres
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  The Health and Wellness Center has plans to take care of Misawa during February's Healthy Heart month.

This month's observance is targeted at raising awareness of heart disease and heart related conditions.

"Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States," said Ms. Christina Lyon, 35th Medical Group. "The focus is to help people live healthier, fuller lives."

The HAWC has set up three major events at the Base Exchange and Commissary to teach Misawa about the dangers of the U.S. number one killer.

A blood pressure screening at the BX is scheduled to take place on Saturday, Feb. 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with the help of volunteer nurses and technicians.

"Each screening will only take a few minutes and should not interfere with regular duties," said Ms. Lyon.

The Lovin' Your Commissary Tour on Feb. 20, from 10 to 11 a.m. will be pointing out healthy heart products sold by Misawa's commissary.

"The tour provides the opportunity to ask questions about nutrition facts, get pointers on how to make your favorite recipes a little healthier, and to identify the best foods for you and your family," she said.

Dr. (Capt.) Richard Bowes and Dr. (Capt.) Stephen Hagberg will give presentations on Heart Disease and Blood Pressure at the Mokuteki Ballroom Feb. 21 from 5 to 6 p.m.

"The presentation will offer ideas on how to maintain a healthy heart, or lower blood pressure and cholesterol," said Ms. Lyon.

Call the HAWC at 226-6653 to sign up. Walk-ins will be welcomed as well.

Risk factors for heart diseases can include high cholesterol or blood pressure; diabetes; tobacco use; diets with high saturated fats, salts, or sodium; inactivity; genetics and obesity.

"All of these risk factors can be minimized or prevented by eating a well balanced diet and regular exercise. It is easily prevented and treated with early intervention," said Ms. Lyon.

"We suggest that people are active for a minimum of 30 minutes most days a week," she added.

For additional information, contact the Health and Wellness Center at 226-6653.