Heart Disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and unfortunately some risk factors cannot be controlled. The great news is an estimated 80% of all cardiovascular disease cases (heart attack, heart failure, and stroke) CAN be prevented.
Our medical practice focuses on our patients’ lifestyles and maintaining healthy habits simply because if you don’t eat a good diet and you don’t exercise, you are at increased risk of developing health problems like high blood pressure and high cholesterol that then can often lead to heart disease.
The important takeaway to remember is heart health is not centered around short-term fixes, but rather making long-term lifestyle changes. Fortunately if you approach it the right way and are educated, aware, and integrate these lifestyle practices, you’ll lower your risk. Our dedicated staff of physicians, PAs, RNs and Registered Dietitian/Health Coaches will help you navigate these issues and learn to make lasting changes to do just that.
One of the very best ways to determine your actual risk involves looking at the blood vessels themselves. A carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) test is an American Heart Association (AHA) approved method to determine that risk. There is no harmful radiation and it is completely noninvasive. It is far more sensitive than the conventional carotid ultrasound. CIMT testing provides the earliest evidence of the origins of atherosclerosis and also has the advantage of being used as a benchmark. Subsequent CIMT results in 6-12 months can determine if interventions are effective for the prevention of heart disease or stroke in the future. Foundations Medical Center is pleased to offer CIMT testing at our office.
Call our office at (850) 269-9000 for more information or to schedule your appointment on our next testing date.
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