American Heart Month Blood Pressure Screening and Heart Health Information Table

In recognition of American Heart Month, Griffin Health caregivers will offer free blood pressure screenings and provide information on heart health, lung cancer screening and tobacco cessation on Wed., Feb. 28 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital lobby, 350 Seymour Avenue, Derby.

High blood pressure increases the risk for heart disease and stroke, two leading causes of death for Americans. High blood pressure is also very common, yet many adults in the United States do not have it under control. High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, so the only way to know if you have it is to get your blood pressure measured.

Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease as it can damage the heart and blood vessels by causing plaque buildup, blood clots, lower HDL cholesterol, and inflammation. Smoking can worsen existing heart problems, increase the risk of subsequent heart attacks, and has been found to cause one of every four deaths from cardiovascular disease. Griffin Health offers free tobacco cessation programs throughout the year to help individuals improve their health and lower their risk for heart disease. Griffin Low-Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening Program can detect lung cancer in an early and treatable stage.