RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about increasing flu infection rates and heart health during Heart Awareness Month. This February, the spotlight is on cardiovascular health as American Heart Month unfolds. The Henry & Stark County Health Department, alongside First Choice Healthcare Clinics, emphasizes the importance of taking proactive measures against heart disease, the top cause of mortality in the United States. Essential actions include routine health checkups, vigilant monitoring of blood pressure and cholesterol, and embracing a diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat options. Engaging in regular exercise, quitting smoking, moderating alcohol intake, and managing diabetes is pivotal in preventing this pervasive health issue. Let’s prioritize heart health for a healthier future.
Attention Henry County residents! Mark your calendars for March 7th as the Henry County Health Department, First Choice Healthcare, and the Henry County Farm Bureau team up to host a special Health Check Clinic. The event will take place at the Henry County Farm Bureau on 128 N Prospect St. in Cambridge and is open to all Farm Bureau members aged 18 and older.
For just $50, participants can receive a comprehensive General Health/Thyroid & Lipid Panel Blood Test, offering 45 results, including a full cholesterol panel. Fasting is recommended for the best results. Men aged 50-64 can also take advantage of a $10 PSA test. Free blood pressure checks will be available, and attendees can enjoy complimentary donuts, coffee, and juice courtesy of the Farm Bureau.
Appointments are required and will be booked on a first-come, first-served basis. Payment is cash only, and the Farm Bureau discount has already been applied. For more details or to schedule an appointment, call the Farm Bureau at (309) 937-2411. Don’t miss this opportunity to prioritize your health while enjoying some treats and valuable health resources!
This February, as we celebrate American Heart Month, the Henry & Stark County Health Department and First Choice Healthcare Clinics are urging residents to prioritize their cardiovascular health. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., but many cases are preventable with the right steps.
Key strategies include scheduling annual checkups, monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat foods. Regular physical activity, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and managing diabetes are also critical.
For more information on the “Heart Healthy” services available through the First Choice Healthcare Clinics, call Kewanee (309) 852-5272; Colona (309) 792-4011; and Toulon (309) 852-3115.
Monitor your blood pressure & get your cholesterol checked. The Department and our First Choice Healthcare Clinics remind area residents that our Family Nurse Practitioners can help with the management of high blood pressure and high cholesterol. If you don’t know your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers, we have services that can help you see where you stand.
Eat a healthy diet. Choosing healthy meals and snack options can help you avoid CVD and its complications. Limiting sodium in your diet can lower your blood pressure. Be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables—adults should have at least five servings each day. Eating foods low in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol and high in fiber.
Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for CVD.
Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
Don’t smoke. Cigarette smoking greatly increases your risk for CVD. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do smoke, quit as soon as possible.
Limit alcohol use. Avoid drinking too much alcohol, which can increase your blood pressure.
Manage your diabetes. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels closely, and talk with your healthcare team about treatment options.
Take your medicine. If you’re taking medication to treat high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or another condition, follow the instructions carefully. Always ask questions if you don’t understand something.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments are urging residents to take action as flu infections reach alarming levels, with the CDC reporting some of the highest numbers in over a decade. This season, the virus has already caused 24 million illnesses, 310,000 hospitalizations, and 13,000 deaths nationwide. With the infectious season stretching into May, there’s still time to protect yourself and your family.
First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon are offering updated COVID-19 and flu shots for adults and children over six months. COVID-19 vaccinations are available by appointment, while flu shots for adults 18+ can be administered on a walk-in basis Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Children’s flu vaccinations require an appointment.
Health officials also recommend simple preventive measures to stay healthy: keep hands clean, cover coughs, stay home when sick, and consider wearing a mask in crowded spaces. For appointments, contact your nearest clinic: Kewanee at 309-852-5272, Colona at 309-792-4011, or Toulon at 309-852-3115. Act now to safeguard your health this season.