Advocate South Suburban Hospital Promotes Heart Health

Southland community members interested in learning more about the status of their heart health gathered at the Tinley Park Convention Center Feb. 19, to attend the 14^th annual An Affair of the Heart health fair and lecture, hosted by Advocate South Suburban Hospital.

The hospital hosts this event every February in recognition of National Heart Health Awareness Month. This year’s event offered free heart-related health tests – including LIPID profile, body mass index (BMI), breathing function and blood pressure screenings –provided by Advocate South Suburban cardiac care professionals. Approximately 100 screenings were completed.

“Heart disease is responsible for one in every four deaths, and we want to do everything we can to reduce this mortality rate, especially in our Southland communities,” says Dr. Lubna Piracha, a cardiologist at Advocate South Suburban. “This is why it’s important for our hospital to offer events like the Affair of the Heart health fair. “

In addition to heart-focused health screenings, the event also featured a breakfast buffet with many heart-healthy selections, and educational lectures provided by Advocate South Suburban physicians. Dr. Piracha presented the lecture titled presented “How Heart Disease Affects Women.” Dr. Jennette Berry, who practices Family Medicine at Advocate South Suburban, presented “Heart Palpitations: When to Seek Medical Advice.“ Both doctors answered questions at the end of the event.

“Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women. However, knowing your risk and adhering to a heart healthy lifestyle before experiencing a heart episode can help reduce the impact of heart disease,” Dr. Berry says. “It’s amazing and encouraging to see so many men and women taking proactive steps to manage and even prevent heart troubles.”

An Affair of the Heart is one of many community-based health education programs offered by Advocate South Suburban Hospital.