Private MD News

Health groups promote cholesterol testing

Category: Heart Health and Cholesterol

Many health experts feel that something must be done about the cholesterol epidemic that is sweeping the country. Heart disease accounts for more deaths each year than any other cause, but it is also the most preventable condition.

In an effort to help people reduce their heart risk, health groups are promoting cholesterol testing as a vital part of heart health, which can help people to understand their risk factors and make lifestyle changes if necessary.

For example, the Ridgefield Visiting Nurses Association of Connecticut recently began a six-week "cholesterol challenge" which helps adults make lifestyle changes that may help them improve their heart health. The group is promoting cholesterol testing as a central point of the challenge, according to the Ridgefield Press.

Theresa Santoro, who is leading the challenge, told the news source that each individual's goals may vary, but hopes that the events will inspire people to make lifestyle changes that contribute to "reducing blood pressure, learning about healthy eating, losing weight, decreasing BMI or just a general lifestyle makeover."

Programs like this could have a significant impact on the heart health of Americans, as cardiovascular complications claimed nearly 1 million lives last year, according to the American Heart Association.