Keep Your Heart Healthy on Valentine's Day

CORTLANDT MANOR, N.Y. -  Hearts are a ubiquitous symbol of love on Valentine's Day, but Americans rarely take Feb. 14 to consider the health of the vital organ which inspires images of love and affection.

According to the Center for Disease Control, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, for both men and women. The CDC says simple lifestyle changes, like eating healthy, not smoking and regular exercise, can reduce risk factors for this preventable disease.

“The fact that cardiac disease is preventable is very important for people to understand,” said Dr. Richard Becker, cardiologist at the Hudson Valley Hospital Center, and Cortlandt Town Council member. “Knowledge is power, and everyone should know their risk factor profile so they can take the appropriate steps to minimize their risks for heart disease, particularly those patients who are overweight, sedentary or may have hypertension or diabetes,” he said.

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease and leads directly to heart attacks. CAD is caused by plaque build up in arteries caused by cholesterol deposits. Although for some the first sign of CAD is a heart attack, there are several tests which can determine your risk factors for heart disease and help lessen your chance of a heart attack.

A Healthy Heart Fair at the Hudson Valley Hospital Center will provide Valentine's Day attendees with free heart screenings, and a chance to speak with nurses, dieticians, and other health care professionals about the best way to mitigate risk factors for heart disease beginning at 10 a.m. Information about cholesterol and blood pressure, weight loss, exercise, nutrition and wound care will be available.

“It’s very important for each person to take the time and understand what their individual risks are, and the preventative measures available for them,” said Joanne Campbell, director of the Wellness Club. The Healthy Heart Fair gives the community a chance to see all of the options available here at HVHC.”

Also participating in the health fair will be members of the NYU Langone Hudson Valley Cardiology Group, which recently moved into a brand new suite at the hospital.  

For more information on the Healthy Heart Fair, please call 914-734-3794.  The event is free and open to the public.

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