Cardiovascular screening appointments available

WOODSTOCK—McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) will conduct Cholesterol screenings in September and October. For $45, the screening includes total cholesterol, HDL, and LDL cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, blood pressure, heart age assessment and cardiovascular education. Fasting for 12 hours before the screening is required. Upon receiving test results, a nursing consult is available. Call 815-334-4852 or schedule an appointment online at www.mcdh.info for the following dates and locations:

9 a.m. – 11 a.m., Wednesday, September 30 – Woodstock Public Library, 414 W. Judd Street

9 a.m. – 11 a.m., Thursday, October 29 – Johnsburg Public Library, 3000 W. Johnsburg Road

About 71 million Americans have high cholesterol according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Only one out of every three adults with high cholesterol has the condition under control. Having high cholesterol puts you at risk for diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure (which is the #1 killer of women and men in the United States). It is also the leading cause of disability, preventing Americans from working and enjoying family activities. People who smoke, are overweight or do not exercise are also at a higher risk for developing heart disease.

There are no signs or symptoms of high cholesterol but it is treatable. Getting your cholesterol checked with a simple blood test is the only way you can know if you are at risk for high cholesterol or already has high cholesterol. Knowing your cholesterol level will help your doctor suggest steps for you to take to prevent high cholesterol or to reduce your levels if they are high. Quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can keep blood cholesterols down.

For more information on cardiovascular disease and its risk factors, visit the CDC at http://www.cdc.gov/features/heartmonth/.