LOCALS are being encouraged to put their health first with free heart health checks in Nowra.
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HCF, leading not-for-profit health fund, has again partnered with the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute to offer free heart health checks for members with extras at HCF Nowra.
The partnership between HCF and Victor Chang, now in its fifth year, has seen almost 35,000 members tested across Australia for risk factors that could affect their heart.
The Victor Chang Health Check Booth will be operating in Nowra from April 3 to April 5 and includes three quick health tests — blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose - to help members understand and track these factors that can impact their heart health.
HCF’s 2016 Nowra program highlighted a need for local members to put their health first, with over a third (38 pert cent) of tested members presenting with high cholesterol, and 70 per cent not knowing their cholesterol levels.
Just over one third (35 per cent) of tested members were recommended to visit a GP for further assessment and health management.
HCF Nowra branch manager, Julie Brammer said last year’s results highlight that locals should remain diligent in assessing their heart health.
“The Heart Health Checks are one way HCF empowers members to make healthy lifestyle choices, particularly to prevent cardiovascular disease,” she said.
“Looking at the results from last year, it's clear there is room for improvement.”
Tips for a healthy heart according to the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute:
• Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and choose lean meats and poultry.
• Cut down on salt.
• Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every day.
• Curb your alcohol intake. No more than one or two standard alcoholic drinks per day is recommended.
• Quit smoking.
• Know your risk factors for heart disease.