Pharmacy offers on-site screenings
Marion Pharmacy will offer four screenings from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 3.
The screening will help to identify people who may be at risk for heart disease.
Cholesterol tests, glucose screenings, blood pressure/hypertension and pulse rate, and body mass index will be available.
The cost for the screening is $15 for testing that does not require fasting, and $20 for testing that does require fasting.
Pharmacists and heart health screeners will be on hand to educate consumers and help them to better manage or prevent the onset of heart disease.
The leading cause of death in the U.S., February has been designated as American Heart Month.
According to the American Heart Association, approximately 64.4 million Americans have one or more types of cardiovascular disease, including high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, and congestive heart failure.
It is estimated that 1.2 million Americans will have a new or recurrent coronary attack this year. Also one in four American adults has high blood pressure, yet 30 percent are unaware they have it.
Cardiovascular diseases may be preventable, and several associated risk factors can be controlled through diet and exercise.
Two cholesterol tests will be available. The lipid profile, comprehensive cholesterol test, requires a 12-hour fast. This test is highly recommended for those who currently are working on lifestyle changes to affect their cholesterol levels.
The total, high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and ratio test gives individuals their overall cholesterol level without having to fast. However, this test does not provide information on LDL, the "bad" cholesterol.
Glucose screenings measure an individual's blood sugar level. Results can be used to identify patients at risk of diabetes and evaluate how the body is converting and breaking down food.
Following the taking of a person's blood pressure and pulse rate, the patient will receive a one-page report with blood pressure and pulse rate guidelines, and their corresponding results.
The BMI, body mass index, is a paper-based calculation in which individuals supply their height and weight, and their BMI is calculated.
The patient will receive a results sheet with their BMI and a weight chart that shows ADA-approved height and weight.
Heart health screenings will not diagnose cardiovascular disease. The screening will help indicate whether a patient is at risk due to cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure, and BMI levels.
Patients are encouraged to take their results to their local health care provider.
The screening lasts about 10 minutes. A screening technician will be available to talk with patients about results and provide general education on heart health.
Appointments are recommended but walk-ins will be accommodated as time permits.
Call (620) 382-2135 for more information or to make an appointment.
