Libraries with heart program host demonstration of blood pressure kits
HCA Florida Healthcare is committed to providing access to vital health resources through Libraries with Heart program.
February is American Heart Month, and the American Heart Association’s Greater Orlando Community Impact team, HCA Florida Healthcare, and Orange County Library System are encouraging Central Florida residents to “know their numbers” by taking advantage of the Libraries with Heart program to fight heart disease. Libraries with Heart provides cardholders the opportunity to check out blood pressure monitoring kits, access health literature and receive referrals to affordable clinics should they need care. The Eatonville Branch Library yesterday hosted a workshop that included a demonstration of the kits, which allow you self-monitor your blood pressure in the comfort of your home. Branch Manager Sara Brown led the workshop for members of the community, with Dr. Duron Lee, HCA Florida Healthcare, demonstrating how to use the kits and answering questions about heart disease prevention and treatment.
High blood pressure is a leading cause of both heart disease and stroke. It’s often referred to as the “silent killer” because it can do damage to a person’s health without any symptoms. High blood pressure leads to cardiovascular disease, the No. 1 cause of death in the U.S. Cardiovascular disease accounts for approximately one out of every five deaths in Florida.
Currently, the Eatonville, Hiawassee, Orlando Public Library, South Creek, South Trail, Southwest, Washington Park, Windermere and Winter Garden branches have launched Libraries with Heart and blood pressure kits are available for check out by library card holders at these sites. The American Heart Association’s Greater Orlando Community Impact team, HCA Florida Healthcare, and Orange County Library System are working to bring Libraries with Heart to all 15 branches. Blood pressure kits may be checked out for two weeks at a time and come with information on how to measure blood pressure correctly and blood pressure tracking logs in English and Spanish so individuals can bring the information to their doctor as needed.