Get Your Heart Into It . . . Wear Red on February 7, 2014

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women, but heart disease is preventable and controllable.

Jefferson County Public Health reminds everyone that Friday, February 7, 2014 is National Wear Red Day. Wearing something red on February 7, is a simple, powerful way to raise awareness of heart disease and stroke.

Jefferson County Public Health is organizing a photo opportunity at the Jefferson County Courts and Administration Building, 100 Jefferson County Parkway in Golden on Friday, February 7, 2014 at 12 noon. Please join us and wear your favorite red.

Jefferson County recently completed a comprehensive health assessment and cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Jefferson County. It accounted for more than 24 percent of all deaths in 2011. Heart disease and stroke are the most common types of cardiovascular disease. Although cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Jefferson County, the number of deaths has declined over the past 10 years. Heart disease can often be prevented. Tackling known risk factors such as tobacco use, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and inactive lifestyle can greatly reduce risks for illness and death from heart disease.

It’s important that individuals talk to a medical provider about risk factors, screening tests, lifestyle changes, and treatment services to prevent heart disease.

• For more information on heart disease and prevention, please visit the American Heart Association www.americanheart.org

• Act in Time! Learn the warning signs and the importance of calling 9-1-1 immediately at the onset of symptoms. 

• The health department also has handouts and other educational materials on heart health and reducing your risk factors. 

• Get Involved in Healthy People Healthy Places Jeffco (a community collaboration working on a health improvement plan for Jefferson County. 

Jefferson County Public Health is committed to promoting health, preserving the environment and preventing injury and disease for the residents of Jefferson County, Colorado. Please call 303-232-6301 or visit our web site at jeffco.us/public-health for more information.

Jefferson County Public Health partners with Jeffco Open Space to promote healthy living. Jeffco Open Space focuses on the benefits of getting outdoors for physical and mental health, and conveying the importance of nature and the environment to youth and families. To learn more about the 28 Open Space Parks in Jefferson County visit jeffco.us/parks/open-space.