Plan on treating yourself to a few candy hearts next week? Don’t forget to treat your real heart to healthy habits too! Heart disease is the leading cause of death among adults of most racial and ethnic groups in the United States. The primary cause of heart disease is high blood pressure, or hypertension. Almost half of American adults have high blood pressure, but only about 1 in 4 have it under control.  

In honor of American Heart Month, let’s review the ABCS of Heart Health to make sure your heart is covered - and not in chocolate!  

A – Take aspirin as directed by your healthcare provider

Aspirin is an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. For some people, regular aspirin use can lower the risk of heart attack or stroke. Ask your doctor about whether aspirin could help lower your risk. 

B – Control your blood pressure (BP) 

Blood pressure measures the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries (tube-like vessels to and from the heart). High blood pressure is the number one risk factor for a heart attack or stroke. Talk to your doctor about whether you need to lower your BP. 

C – Manage your cholesterol 

Cholesterol is a waxy substance made by the liver and found in many foods. While your body needs some cholesterol, too much of it can cause build-up in the arteries and lead to heart disease. Some types of cholesterol are considered “good” and can help protect you from heart disease. Other types are considered “bad” and raise your risk. Talk to your doctor about the different types of cholesterols and how to lower “bad” cholesterols if needed.  

S – Don't smoke 

Smoking raises your blood pressure, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke. For help quitting today, visit QuitNowVirginia.org.  

To learn more, visit the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) Million Hearts webpage on the ABCS of Heart Health.   

Interested in joining or know someone who should? Email Focus Group Coordinator Kaitlyn Gentille at kaitlyn.gentille@vdh.virginia.gov. 

Questions about MAPP2Health or the Community Health Assessment? Email CHA/CHIP Program Officer Jen Fleisher at jennifer.fleisher@vdh.virginia.gov. 

Monthly Rapid REVIVE! Naloxone Trainings

Free trainings and dispensing of Naloxone nasal spray used to treat suspected opioid overdoses. All are welcome. Visit the Harm Reduction webpage for more information.

• 2nd Tuesday of the month: February 11 from 3 to 4 PM at the Greene County Health Department (50 Stanard St., Stanardsville, VA) and Fluvanna County Health Department (132 Main St., Palmyra, VA)
• Mondays: February 24 from 3 to 4 PM at the Charlottesville/Albemarle Health Department (1138 Rose Hill Dr., Charlottesville, VA)
• 3rd Wednesday of the month: February 19 from 3 to 4 PM at the Louisa County Health Department (101 Woolfolk Ave. Suite 202, Louisa, VA) 
• 2nd Thursday of the month: February 13 from 3 to 4 PM at the Nelson County Health Department (1653 Thomas Nelson Hwy., Arrington, VA)

Monthly Test & Go Event

Free walk-in STI testing on a first come, first served basis until supplies run out. No insurance needed. Call 434-972-6269 for more information.

• 3rd Tuesday of the month: February 18 from 4:30 to 6 PM at the Charlottesville/Albemarle Health Department (1138 Rose Hill Dr., Charlottesville, VA)

Monthly Community Health Worker (CHW) Office Hours

Walk-in one-on-one sessions hosted by our CHWs across the District in January through March. All are welcome. Visit the Community Health Worker webpage for more information.