Leap into Heart Health

Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center is encouraging residents to “Leap into Heart Health” as part of a new awareness program for February’s American Heart Month.

The program is available on pbrmc.com/heart-challenge where users can access heart health tips, reduce risk factors, and learn how to cultivate healthier lifestyles when they sign up for the email list. Subscribers will receive biweekly emails containing articles, heart health tips and motivation.

According to Dr. Michael Lim of PBRMC’s cardiology department, heart disease is the foremost cause of death in the United States.

“The number one changeable habit contributing to heart disease in this community is smoking,” Lim asserted concerning Butler County’s higher-than-average rates of tobacco use.

He explained that smoking causes buildup of plaque in blood vessels which directly contributes to the likelihood of a heart attack or stroke. He also emphasized the importance of exercise and reducing stress.

Lim encourages everyone to take inventory of any risk factors.

“While some risks are inherent and cannot be changed, it is likely that we can find at least one thing that can be done to lower the risk of heart disease and this is what we should focus on,” he relayed.

Lim recommends that residents seek an appointment with a heart doctor to estimate a 10 and 15-year risk of heart disease. Doctors will provide advice on how to reduce the patient’s probability of heart disease, often through simple lifestyle changes.

PBRMC is also hosting a free Heart Health Lunch and Learn from noon to 1 p.m. Feb. 9, at the Holiday Inn in Poplar Bluff. Cardiovascular experts will be available to answer questions. Blood pressure screenings will also be available. A free, heart-healthy lunch will be provided.

Mayor Shane Cornman will inaugurate the event. Three Rivers College will also provide continuing education credits for those in attendance.

Lim encourages Southeast Missouri to take heart health seriously and reiterates the importance of healthy lifestyles for a potentially longer life. PBRMC’s Leap into Heart Health program provides an easy way for residents to stay aware and informed.