In support of American Heart Month, WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital (PCH) joined forces with groups across the nation to promote heart health, especially among women, on National Wear Red Day. The event, held at the PCH Parkview Center Atrium, aimed to raise awareness about the alarming rates of heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in Americans, particularly women.

PCH President Karen Bowling expressed her gratitude to all attendees and emphasized the importance of the day. She highlighted that heart disease surpasses cancer as the number one killer among women, emphasizing the need for increased focus on heart health screenings and prevention efforts.

During the event, Bowling stressed the significance of healthy habits in preventing heart disease. She emphasized the importance of mindful eating, encouraging individuals to prioritize nutritious meals with fruits and vegetables instead of opting for grab-and-go options. Regular exercise was also emphasized as a crucial component of heart health, not just for its physical benefits but also for stress reduction.

Recognizing stress as a potential threat to overall well-being, Bowling urged women to find healthy outlets to alleviate stress. Some suggestions included meditation, prayer, joining interest groups, and volunteering. Adequate sleep was also emphasized as essential for stress relief.

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease remains the leading cause of death in West Virginia. Being aware of risk factors and taking preventive steps is crucial. These risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, physical inactivity, diabetes, a family history of early coronary heart disease, and age for women (55 and older).

To combat heart disease, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute offers guidelines such as not smoking, following a heart-healthy diet, engaging in at least 30 minutes of physical activity for five days a week, and regularly checking blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose levels.

Bowling emphasized the importance of self-awareness and immediate action for those experiencing symptoms of heart disease. She urged individuals to visit their primary care provider and seek medical attention promptly. Chest pains in women may manifest differently, such as through shortness of breath and shoulder pains. The emergency room should be visited if there are signs and symptoms of a heart attack.

For diagnosis and treatment of heart and lung issues, including heart disease, WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital offers a dedicated cardiopulmonary department.

By shedding light on the prevalence of heart disease and the importance of preventive measures, PCH's Wear Red Day event aimed to empower women to take control of their heart health. With increased awareness and proactive healthcare, individuals can strive towards a future free from the burden of heart disease.