Public learning how to prevent heart disease at free event
September 13, 2011
Cardiac specialists explain how to reduce risk factors at symposium today
EDMONTON — Local residents are learning how to reduce the risk of developing heart disease today at a free symposium.
Alberta Health Services (AHS) cardiac specialists are addressing a variety of issues, including the impact of nutrition and exercise on heart health, at the day-long Heart Health Symposium at the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute. It’s organized by the University Hospital Foundation.
“Many Canadians aren’t even aware that they may be at risk for heart disease and that very simple changes to their lifestyle can reduce the impact or prevent its onset altogether,” says cardiologist Dr. Rob Welsh.
He says 80 per cent of Canadians have at least one risk factor for heart disease.
“Health education is really the first step in the prevention of heart disease and the goal of the symposium is to educate Albertans about the importance of a healthy lifestyle,” says Dr. Welsh.
The symposium runs until 4 p.m. today in the atrium of the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute. Sessions include Portion Distortion, Heart Healthy Nutrition, Exercise and the Heart and Sleep Apnea – Nothing to Yawn At.
Sharing information to present and manage chronic diseases, such as heart disease, is among the goals outlined in the 5-Year Health Action Plan, jointly developed by the Government of Alberta and AHS, and supported by the province’s stable, 5-year funding.
The Heart Health Symposium is the first of a two-part initiative aimed at promoting cardiac health in Edmonton and northern Alberta. The second part is the annual Heartbeat Run, held at Louise McKinney Park, on Sept. 25.
“The goal of the run is to get people taking steps in the right direction and to raise awareness and funds for the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute,” says Dr. Welsh, co-chair of the run.
Participants can sign up for a 10-kilometre run, a five-kilometre run/walk or a one-kilometre fun run. Last year, 410 run participants helped the University Hospital Foundation raise more than $15,000 for the Mazankowski. This year, the goal is to raise more than $20,000.
“We are passionate about partnering with our community to raise funds that help to change and save lives at the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute,” says Joyce Mallman Law, President of the University Hospital Foundation. “The Heart Health Symposium and the Heartbeat Run are two fabulous events that provide our community with an opportunity to learn more about heart health, have some fun and raise funds for an important cause.”
The Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, which opened in 2009, brings pediatric and adult cardiology under one roof and enables clinicians, researchers and technologists to share their specialist skills and expertise.
The University Hospital Foundation raises funds to support innovation and excellence at Edmonton’s University of Alberta Hospital and Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than 3.7 million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
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