February is American Heart Month, an annual educational and awareness campaign that seeks to help people of all ages take charge of their cardiovascular health. In response, Fellowship Square hosted Kelly Sloma, physician liaison at the National Vascular Association, at our Lake Ridge community on February 24. She talked with residents about heart disease and factors that can affect heart health – such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and diet – and she shared information about what signs and symptoms to watch for that may indicate heart health challenges. We sat down with Kelly to find out a bit more about her organization’s work and what people can do to protect their heart health.
Q: Why is heart health so important?
A: Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups; 1 in every 4 deaths in the U.S. related to cardiovascular disease; nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, which puts them at risk for heart disease and stroke; and the cost of health care services and medications from heart disease amounted to more than $168 billion between 2021 and 2022.
Q: What is the National Vascular Association?
A: We specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of vascular conditions, and our services include vascular screenings, peripheral artery disease (PAD) treatment, venous and arterial treatments, and vascular ultrasound, as well as community outreach for education on PAD. At Lake Ridge, I encouraged residents to take an active role in their heart health and to talk with the primary care doctors about the many factors affecting heart health. I encouraged them to share information about any symptoms they might be having, and to keep the conversation going. I also conducted screenings for PAD with interested residents.
Q: What does screening for PAD involve?
A: It’s easy and noninvasive! We use QuantaFlo, which tests for blood circulation and involves placing sensors on a person’s index finger and big toe, and it senses blood flow to these extremities. It takes about 10 minutes.
Q: What do you wish everyone knew about heart health?
A: We all have a direct impact on our hearth health. Our nutrition and activity levels play a big role, and I encourage everyone to be proactive with their health, know the signs and symptoms of heart issues, and address any concerns with their primary care providers in order to get the best healthcare.