Health department observing American Heart Month

February is American Heart Month, and unfortunately, most people know someone who has had heart disease or stroke.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Fayette County.
Approximately one of every three deaths in the county is due to a heart attack or stroke. For the past few years, Fayette County has averaged 215 deaths per year.
There are many factors that put a person at risk for cardiovascular disease. Among the risks are: excess body weight, tobacco use, elevated blood pressure, high cholesterol and lack of exercise.
Between 2007 and 2009, the Illinois Department of Public Health conducted a behavioral risk factor study for Fayette County residents.
Of the Fayette County residents surveyed:
• 71 percent identified themselves as obese or overweight; Illinois respondents-63 percent.
• 53 percent identified themselves as current or former smokers; Illinois respondents-45 percent.
• 33 percent were told by a medical professional they had high blood pressure.
• 34 percent were told by a medical professional they had high cholesterol.
• 8 percent were told by a medical professional they had diabetes.
• 6 percent were told they had a heart attack.
• 5 percent were told they had angina.
• 3 percent were told they had a stroke.    
 

The Fayette County Health Department staff is shown above. The department is observing American Heart Month and is ready to help county residents in preventing heart attacks and strokes.