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Hospital Marks Healthy Heart Month

Bermuda Hospitals Board launches Healthy Heart Month on 1 February by highlighting the importance of a comprehensive approach to coronary disease, the number one cause of death for both men and women here in Bermuda and around the world. Activities for the month include free health screenings in the hospital lobby between 11:00am and 2:00pm on Wednesday, 22 February 2012. Testing, carried out by specialized nurses will include blood pressure, blood sugar, weight circumference and Body Mass Index.

“The hospital currently provides our community with a range of cardiology services that include diagnostics and expert consults, as well as venues that address the learning needs of our heart patients,” said Dr. Carl Levick, BHB Director of Cardiology. “Our Cardiac Diagnostic Unit offers screening procedures designed to detect and monitor heart disease. These include electrocardiograms, echocardiograms and stress testing. We recently introduced nuclear imaging (for patients unable to ambulate on a treadmill) and trans-oesophageal echocardiography, which has expanded our ability to accurately diagnose and treat various heart conditions. As a result of these screening procedures, patients who may be having symptoms suggesting serious cardiac disease, such as chest discomfort and/or shortness of breath, can now receive a more conclusive diagnosis and appropriate treatment can be started.”

In addition, healthcare professionals at the hospital are placing a greater emphasis on the role of education and prevention in the fight against coronary disease. Lifestyle changes that include a healthy diet, moderate daily exercise and the reduction of stress levels are integral to the management of various risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and physical inactivity. Research has shown that managing these risk factors will significantly reduce the risk of cardiac events.