| TAKE A TEST TO PROTECT YOUR HEART |
Heart disease ranks among the leading causes of death for Americans. 
To obtain baseline health information and discover risk indicators for chronic diseases caused by cardiovascular ailments, the Division of Health Services encourages residents to undergo regular heart health screenings.
What is the Cost of Heart Disease?
Approximately 1-in-3 American deaths is due to cardiovascular disease and a heart attack occurs nearly every minute of the day across the United States. Treatment of heart disease and related issues accounts for $1 of every $6 health care expenses — totaling more than $300 billion each year in medical care and lost wages. As a result, caring for heart disease is among the leading causes for bankruptcy due to medical expenses in the U.S.
FREE Blood Draws for Heart Screenings Identify Risks
“Cholesterol build-up, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar and a high Body Mass Index are recognized precursors to heart disease,” says Sara Evers, Director for the Division of Health Services. “Our Health Services Clinic screenings help residents recognize their risks and establish a baseline before any complications develop. Determining one’s status through these screenings can help medical professionals suggest simple lifestyle changes that contribute significant long-term improvements.”
To help St. Charles County residents know their numbers during Heart Health Month, the clinic will waive the blood draw fee for cholesterol and blood glucose tests every Thursday in February — a $10 value. Services are payable by cash, check and credit card (includes a service fee) or through individual health insurance plans. To schedule a heart health screening, call the Health Services Clinic at 636-949-7484.
Recommended heart health screenings include:
- Cholesterol levels – Individuals ages 20 and older should have their cholesterol levels checked every four to six years.
- Blood Sugar levels – Individuals who are pre-diabetic or who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 or higher should undergo annual blood glucose testing.
- Blood Pressure – Those ages 18 and older should undergo this screening at least every two years to provide information about their health.
- Height/Weight analysis – A BMI analysis should be performed periodically to indicate the need for further assessment by a medical professional.
For additional Health eTips throughout the year, please follow us on Facebook and Twitter.