by Janeth Vazquez
LIBERAL, KS – February is American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease and stroke, which remain the leading causes of death in the U.S. Southwest Medical Center (SWMC) is proud to support this national initiative by providing heart health tips, encouraging preventive care, and highlighting the importance of heart disease awareness in women.
Prioritizing Heart Health
At Southwest Medical Center, we emphasize early detection and prevention as key factors in maintaining a healthy heart. Our team encourages everyone to take these simple but important steps:
✅ Schedule an annual checkup and monitor key heart health numbers such as cholesterol, blood pressure, and ejection fraction.
✅ Track blood pressure regularly, especially for those with hypertension, by checking it twice daily and maintaining a blood pressure log for review with a physician.
✅ Family education regarding hands-on CPR. It is recommended for families to take CPR training.
Understanding American Heart Month
First declared in 1964 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, American Heart Month continues to bring national attention to heart disease prevention. This year, the American Heart Association is focusing on heart disease in women, as nearly 1 in 3 women will experience heart disease in their lifetime.
Southwest Medical Center’s team is dedicated to helping patients maintain heart-healthy lifestyles. According to SWMC Trauma Program Coordinator Katie Coleman, RN, adopting these habits can make a significant difference:
❤️ Maintain a balanced diet by limiting salt and caffeine.
🏃♀️ Stay active with heart-healthy exercises like swimming, biking, or brisk walking.
💙 Build strong social connections to help manage stress.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Heart Health
The lingering effects of COVID-19 continue to impact cardiovascular health. Unhealthy habits developed during the pandemic—such as poor diet and lack of exercise—can contribute to heart complications. Experts recommend making active lifestyle changes to help counteract these effects.
Cardiac Services at Southwest Medical Center
In the event of cardiac concerns, Southwest Medical Center provides a range of diagnostic and procedural services close to home, including:
✔Electrocardiography (EKG)
✔Stress testing
✔ Echocardiography
✔ Comprehensive heart care delivered by an experienced and compassionate team
CPR Classes at Southwest Medical Center
Southwest Medical Center offers CPR and First Aid classes at a minimal fee. Preregistration is required. Please call the Education Department at 620-629-6328 or email education@swmedcenter.com to sign up.
Get Involved: National Wear Red Day – February 7
We encourage everyone to Wear Red on Friday, February 7, in support of National Wear Red Day. This movement raises awareness of heart disease in women. Help us spread awareness by posting your photos on your social media using #WearRedDay #SWMC #WeCare!
At SWMC, every month is heart month, and we are committed to providing the best care for our community.
