PARTNERS WORKING TOGETHER

On February 1 ^st , Saint Peter’s University Hospital with their partners held the Annual Go Red for Women’s Heart Health Village in their lobby. In order to recognize and raise awareness of the importance of women’s heart health. Cardiovascular disease (which includes stroke and heart attack) is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, taking more female lives than all cancers, respiratory diseases and Alzheimer disease combined, and claims the life of a woman every 80 seconds. However 80 percent of cardiovascular diseases in women can be prevented. Many women of color, including African American and Latino Americans, are more likely to develop risk factors for heart disease and are at a higher risk of death, yet they are less likely to recognize their risks.

Saint Peter’s employees and members of the public had an opportunity at this event to learn how they could reduce their risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Participants were also encouraged to take part in the free health screenings that were offered by Community Health Services, a department of Saint Peter’s University Hospital, which included: cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar*, HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c Test)**, body mass index measurement and nutrition counseling.

Free chair massages for stress reduction was done by Renata Szuba, physical therapist. There was also chair yoga given by Catherine Andruzzi a performance and leadership coach and a Rutgers University faculty member. A heart healthy cooking demonstration, food samples and recipes were provided by Elijah’s Promise Culinary School.  Magic 98.3FM was also in attendance assisting with broadcast promotion of the event and providing free giveaways for attendees.

This serves as an example of various community organizations that joined together to promote a nationally recognized health initiative in Middlesex County.