February is American Heart Month 1

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women. 1 in 4 deaths are related to heart disease. To prevent heart disease and increase awareness of its effects, Family Caregivers Network and The Open Link are proudly participating in American Heart Month.


Statistics show that locally in Montgomery County, 2% of deaths in 2010 were related to heart disease. Heart disease was the leading cause of death for men in Montgomery County and the second leading cause of death in women. The symptoms of a heart attack for women can be much different than they are for men. Women often feel hot, exhausted, become pale, then develop pain but not necessarily in their chest. Women often just attribute the symptoms to working too hard. But it is important to not ignore any symptoms when you don’t feel good. Both men and women need to learn about heart disease and how to prevent a serious heart attack.

You can make healthy changes to lower your risk of developing heart disease. Controlling and preventing risk factors is important for people who already have heart disease to reduce your risks for a heart attack. To lower your risk:

  1. Watch your weight.
  2. Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.
  3. Control your cholesterol and blood pressure.
  • d.If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
  • e.Get active and eat healthy.

Join us on February 25th from 10:30 am to 11:30 am at The Center at The Open Link at 517 Jefferson Street in East Greenville for a Heart Disease Seminar. Learn your risks and how you can start today to prevent or reduce your risks for heart disease. For more information on this program and others, contact Family Caregivers Network at 215-541-9030