Macon, Ga. (January 31, 2025) – Heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States for both men and women, claims a life every 34 seconds.
In 2023, the overall number of cardiovascular related deaths in the U.S. was 931,578, a slight uptick from the previous year, according to the American Heart Association.
February is American Heart Month, and on Thursday, Feb. 20, Piedmont Macon North Hospital, 400 Charter Blvd., is hosting “Healthy Heart Screening,” a free event open to the public from 7 to 11 a.m. in Medical Building B’s Rehab Suite. Reservations are required.
The heart screenings will include:
- A fasting lipid blood test to check cholesterol, triglycerides and A1C;
- Weight and body mass index checks;
- Hip-to-waist ratio checks;
- Blood pressure screenings;
- Screening for peripheral artery disease.
Clinicians will be on site and available to answer questions at the Feb. 24 event. Piedmont representatives also will be able to share information about stroke prevention, nutrition, medication and exercise.
Anyone interested in having bloodwork done at the event must fast (no food or drinks) beginning at midnight the night before. A medication list would be helpful for those who want to discuss their medications with the pharmacy team or a physician at the screenings.
To register for an available slot, call 478.538.0408 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
“We should prioritize heart screenings because they play a crucial role in maintaining heart health and preventing life-threatening conditions,” said Sirena Fritz, Piedmont Macon’s director of Cardiovascular Services. “Schedule regular heart screenings, especially if you are over 40, live a sedentary lifestyle or have risk factors.”
During Heart Month, Piedmont Macon is partnering with Bike Walk Macon for a leisurely 3-mile walk from Piedmont Macon Medical Center, 350 Hospital Drive, to the Great Temple Mound at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park.
In addition to the exercise, participants will be able to get free blood pressure checks before the walk and heart-healthy tips from Piedmont Macon staff members.
The walk is Saturday, Feb. 8 at 9 a.m. and is free to the public. Plan to meet at Piedmont Macon’s Building D and help us celebrate Heart Month!