MHP to offer Community Cholesterol Screenings in February
Mahaska Health Partnership - Hospital (photo - D.Hubbard)
OSKALOOSA – Mahaska Health Partnership (MHP) will be offering reduced-rate Cholesterol Screenings for the community on Tuesday, Feb. 14 and Wednesday, Feb. 15.
According to the American Heart Association, high cholesterol is one of the major controllable risk factors for coronary artery disease, heart attack and stroke. “Although our bodies need cholesterol, too much of one type can lead to major health complications,” explained MHP Cardiopulmonary Nurse Renee Edgar.
The American Heart Association explains that cholesterol is a soft, fat-like, waxy substance found in the bloodstream and in our body’s cells. Cholesterol is an important part of a healthy body because it is used for the production of cell membranes and some hormones, as well as other necessary bodily functions. However, too much cholesterol in the blood is a significant contributor to coronary artery disease, which leads to heart attack and stroke.
“One of the best ways we can protect ourselves from these complications is regular screenings,” Edgar explained. “People old and young should have their cholesterol checked regularly in order to correct any health issues with diet, exercise and/or medicine.”
Edgar stressed that all ages can benefit from a cholesterol screening, including young people. “If a person is in their 30s, they may not be thinking about cholesterol yet but they should. At that point in a person’s life, it is early enough to make simple changes that can have a big impact later in life.”
Three options are available during the screenings, which will be offered on the MHP campus in Oskaloosa from 6:00 to 9:00 a.m. as well as New Sharon Medical Center from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. both Tuesday, Feb. 14 and Wednesday, Feb. 15. Participants can choose to complete a 12-hour fasting lipid panel or a non-fasting lipid panel and a fasting blood glucose level.
“I would recommend the 12- hour fasting lipid panel because that will provide the most in-depth analysis of a person’s cholesterol panel.” Edgar said. “The cost for a fasting lipid panel is only $20 and the test will report a person’s total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol and cardiac risk ratio.”
Cardiopulmonary experts will also be on hand at the screenings to give free blood pressure checks and provide valuable nutritional information. “Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal for our community, and this simple screening could make a big impact in the health of your heart,” Edgar stressed.
To make an appointment for a cholesterol screening in Oskaloosa, call 641-672-3100; in New Sharon, call 641-637-2651. Visit mahaskahealth.org for more information.
