Know Your Numbers ...and reduce your risk of cardiovascualar disease

Know Your Numbers ...and reduce your risk of cardiovascualar disease

Heart disease (heart attack/stroke) occurs when the arteries that feed your heart or brain become clogged or damaged.

Risk factors for heart disease/stroke:

• Family history
• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Obesity
• Lack of physical activity
• Unmanaged stress

 

Heart disease (heart attack/stroke) occurs when the arteries that feed your heart or brain become clogged or damaged.

Risk factors for heart disease/stroke:

• Family history
• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Obesity
• Lack of physical activity
• Unmanaged stress

 

You can assess and monitor your risk of heart disease and stroke by knowing these NUMBERS:

Total Cholesterol - which is made up of:

• HDL - the "good" cholesterol that keeps blood vessels clear
• LDL - the "bad"cholesterol that clogs blood vessels
• Triglycerides - another "bad" cholesterol that clogs blood vessels

You can assess and monitor your risk of heart disease and stroke by knowing these NUMBERS:

Total Cholesterol - which is made up of:

• HDL - the "good" cholesterol that keeps blood vessels clear
• LDL - the "bad"cholesterol that clogs blood vessels
• Triglycerides - another "bad" cholesterol that clogs blood vessels

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Blood Pressure - Blood pressure is expressed as two numbers:

• Systolic (top) - pressure when the heart is beating
• Diastolic (bottom) - pressure when the heart is resting

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Glucose (blood sugar) - High blood sugar can damage blood vessels/

Know Your Numbers Brochure (PDF format)

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How do I get my "numbers"?

Talk with your family doctor about getting your cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose numbers.

Or, visit one of Sparrow's Regional Laboratories and request a Know Your Numbers screening.

• Cost is $10/person (cash or check).
• No appointment is required.
• To assure accuracy, you must fast for 12 hours prior to the test; water is allowed and you may continue to take your medications.

Your test results will be mailed to you. To locate a Sparrow Regional Laboratory near you, call 517.364.7800 or 1.800.SPARROW. (1.800.772.7769)

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Next steps?
Discuss your numbers with your doctor. Exercise, proper nutrition and, when appropriate, medication will improve your numbers.

Need help finding a family doctor? Click here or call 1.800.SPARROW(1.800.772.7769).