McHenry County offers cholesterol screenings
McHenry County Department of Health will offer cholesterol screenings in recognition of February's American Heart Month.
The screening requires a 12-hour fast and includes total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, blood pressure, heart age assessment and cardiovascular education. The cost is $35. A nursing consult is available once results are received. Men who are 50 years of age may also receive a free PSA screening. Appointments are required at (815) 334-4082 for the these dates/locations:
• 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at Alden-Hebron High School, 9604 Illinois St., Hebron
• 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, at Woodstock Public Library, 414 W. Judd St.
• 6:30 to 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, at Sage YMCA, 701 Manor St., Crystal Lake
• 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb 25, at McHenry Township, 3703 N. Richmond Road, Johnsburg
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 71 million Americans have high cholesterol. Only one out of every three adults with high cholesterol has the condition under control. Having high cholesterol puts you at risk for cardiovascular disease (includes heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure) which is the No. 1 killer of women and men in the United States. It is also the leading cause of disability, preventing Americans from working and enjoying family activities. Certain lifestyles such as being a smoker, being overweight and lack of exercise can also put people at a higher risk for developing heart disease.
There are no signs or symptoms of high cholesterol but it can be treated. Getting your cholesterol checked with a simple blood test is the only way you can know if you are at risk for high cholesterol or already have high cholesterol. Knowing your cholesterol level will help your doctor suggest steps for you to take to prevent high cholesterol or to reduce your levels if they are high. Quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can keep blood cholesterols down.
For more information on cardiovascular disease and its risk factors, visit the CDC at www.cdc.gov/features/heartmonth/.