February is Heart Disease Awareness Month.

The Heart & Stroke Foundation has chosen to make women the focus of this year's awareness month. Kate Chidester, Vice President - Advocacy of Health and Research for Heart & Stroke, said many people don't realize how prominent heart disease is among women. 

"You know, heart disease historically has been seen as a man's disease but we do know that it is the leading cause of premature death in women in Canada and we are only beginning to understand why and apply that knowledge. It's important for us to be aware and look at how [women] are being researched, diagnosed and treated so that women have a better survival rate."

According to a study published in Circulation, early signs of impending heart attacks were missed by 78 percent of women. Studies show that alcohol and tobacco use, as well as high-stress levels and excessive use of caffeine, can lead to high blood pressure. High blood pressure can be dangerous and lead to early heart disease. Chidester said there are ways to combat and lower your blood pressure. 

"We do know that having physical exercise is very important and that is the same with healthy eating. It's also important to reduce stress and limit the amount of sodium consumption. People should be exercising up to 150 minutes a week to promote healthy heart function."

The City of Airdrie and Genesis Place are teaming up to offer free blood pressure screenings this month. Residents of Airdrie who would like to get screened just have visit Genesis Place.

 

Questions, comments or story ideas? email us at news@discoverairdrie.com