Jersey Residents: Prioritize Your Heart Health—Get Checked Today!

Cardiologists in Jersey are raising awareness about heart health. Recently, they held free heart screenings for residents at two locations—one in St. Helier and another at the hospital entrance. About 160 people took advantage of this opportunity.

Heart conditions are a significant concern in Jersey, affecting approximately one in three residents. Heart attacks remain the leading cause of death on the island, as noted by the Government of Jersey.

The screenings were quick and non-invasive. They focused on checking blood pressure and heart rate. According to Dr. Brian Wang, a cardiology fellow, anyone worried about their heart should consult their GP. High blood pressure can fluctuate, but consistent readings are concerning.

Dr. Wang emphasized, “If your blood pressure is high or your heart rate is elevated, these can indicate potential heart issues.” He suggested that people can easily monitor their blood pressure at home using affordable devices available at pharmacies.

Key signs of heart problems include shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs. Risk factors encompass a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol, poorly managed blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels.

Understanding these risks is crucial for proactive heart health management. Statistics show that around 60% of adults in the UK are unaware of their own heart health status, highlighting the importance of regular check-ups and self-monitoring.

In today’s fast-paced world, raising awareness around heart health is more important than ever. Simple lifestyle changes and regular screenings can lead to major improvements in health outcomes.

Source link