February 15, 2007
Think about your heart this month
February is the American Heart Association's National Heart Month. Throughout the month, YKHC Healthy Hearts will be providing education and activities related to the health of the heart.
Heart Disease and Diabetes
It has been well established that having diabetes increases one's risk to developing heart disease. Diabetes can cause arteries to clog, blood pressure to rise, kidneys to fail, and heart tissue to degenerate. It is inevitable that heart disease will lead to heart failure and eventually be fatal if proper care is not provided and appropriate lifestyle changes do not occur.
Fortunately, diabetes is controllable and people can prevent heart disease and live a long, happy, and healthy life. Healthy Hearts provides care and support for lifestyle changes for Alaskan Natives and American Indians diagnosed with diabetes. Members who join the program can develop the knowledge and skills necessary to eat healthier, reduce excess body fat, and enjoy more physical activity.
For more information on Healthy Hearts, call Ben Marx at 1-800-478-4471 ext. 6904 or 543-6904.