February 2014

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February is Heart Month

Heart Disease is the number one cause of death in the United States, killing almost 380,000 people annually. Heart disease is also the number one killer of women, taking more lives than all forms of cancer combined. According to the American Heart Association, about 83.6 million Americans are living with some form of cardiovascular disease or the after-effects of stroke. Living a heart-healthy lifestyle, knowing your numbers and staying educated are important steps in making sure you lower your risks of developing heart disease. To help you keep abreast of topics regarding the heart, Floyd Valley Hospital will be hosting their annual "February is Heart Month" program. Dr. Hartman with Cardiovascular Associates (CVA) will present "Ask the Cardiologist" on Tuesday, February 25. There will be a light meal served at 6:00 p.m. and the program will begin at 6:30. Reservations are necessary and can be made by calling (712) 546-3401.

Events at Floyd Valley Hospital

Know Your Numbers

Checking and keeping your cholesterol numbers in the healthy range is a great step in lowering your chances of heart disease and stroke. The American Heart Association recommends that all adults aged 20 years and older should have a screening. A simple, fasting lab test could let you know how your numbers look. While not all cholesterol numbers are bad, the key is knowing how to properly interpret these numbers. Your lipid profile will report on your total cholesterol level, risk factor, HDL (good cholesterol), LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides. Most of these levels can be modified by lifestyle changes including eating healthier, getting more physical activity, stopping tobacco use and abstaining from alcohol. Knowing your fasting glucose level also helps track your risk for diabetes. During February, Floyd Valley Hospital and Family Medicine Clinics want to make sure you have the opportunity to have your cholesterol and glucose levels checked.

Screening Information

Stroke Screenings Held Monthly

Floyd Valley Hospital and Northwest Iowa Diagnostics continue to provide Stroke Screenings in the Floyd Valley Hospital Radiology Department. The next screening will be offered Tuesday, February 11, 2014. Participants are offered three separate screenings at $40.00 each, or sign up for all three for $95.00.

Carotid Artery/Stroke Screening
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening
Peripheral Artery Disease/Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) Screening

These are noninvasive, painless screenings for vascular disease using the most advanced Doppler ultrasound technology at your local hospital. These screenings will quickly detect abnormalities in the arteries which can cause irregular blood flow and possibly more serious health concerns.

Every year, more than 795,000 Americans experience a stroke. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability. Yet, up to 80 percent of all strokes may be preventable, with proper attention to medical and lifestyle risk factors.