Event toput focus on health of hearts

In an effort to educate residents about cardiovascular care, the University Health Care System will hold its annual Heart Health Fair on Saturday in Evans.

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The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Columbia County Library. Guests can participate in a variety of free activities, including blood sugar testing, blood pressure screening, counseling and a lipid profile that incorporates total cholesterol in addition to HDL, LDL and triglyceride levels.

"We're trying to educate people on the importance of their heart, and in order to know what's going on with your heart, you need to know the results of these screenings," said Amy Johnston, the hospital's community relations specialist.

The health fair was held at the Evans library for the first time last February, and about 500 people attended, she said.

The event also falls within American Heart Month.

"February is heart month, and ... University offers a wide variety of heart education and heart screenings during the month of February," she said.

The screenings, Johnston said, are geared for adults 18 and older and should be conducted annually. Nurses also will be on hand to answer any questions guests might have, she said.

Those in attendance will receive a free heart portfolio to keep track of their screenings in addition to a gift bag.

Johnston said she hopes visitors will improve their health by undergoing these procedures.

"When you know if something is abnormal then you can treat it and then you live a longer and healthier life," she said.

For information, visit www.columbiacountyga.gov or call toll free (866) 591-2502.

IF YOU GO

What: 2009 Heart Health Fair by University Health Care System

When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday

Where: The Columbia County Library in Evans