Wellfleet, Mass., February 3, 2024 – Outer Cape Health Services is observing American Heart Month this February to highlight the importance of preventing and managing heart disease. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for one in every five deaths nationwide. The good news is that many cases are preventable with timely intervention and lifestyle changes.
As part of its focus on heart disease prevention this month, OCHS proudly supports “Wear Red Day” on Friday, February 7. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among women, yet it is often under-recognized due to the misconception that it primarily aQects men. This nationwide initiative highlights the unique risks women face and encourages proactive steps toward better heart health. By wearing red, residents can show solidarity and help raise awareness. For more information, visit GoRedforWomen.org.
“Heart disease remains a significant challenge to public health for men and women, but it is largely preventable through education, regular screenings, and adopting healthier habits,” said Gretchen Eckel, Associate Medical Director of Population Health at Outer Cape Health Services. “Outer Cape Health Services is committed to empowering our community with the tools and resources it needs to ensure heart disease remains a preventable condition.”
OCHS encourages all residents to schedule a preventive screening to assess their heart health and learn about strategies for reducing their risk of heart disease. Preventive care is an essential component of OCHS’s mission to promote community well-being across Cape Cod’s outermost towns.
The American Heart Association highlights the ABC’s of heart health for eQective prevention:
- Aspirin: Consult your healthcare provider to determine if low-dose aspirin therapy is appropriate for you. It may not be indicated for everyone.
- Blood Pressure Control: Maintain healthy blood pressure levels to reduce strain on your heart. Preventive measures include regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, a low sodium diet and limitations in caQeine and alcohol.
- Cholesterol Management: Monitor and manage cholesterol levels to prevent plaque buildup in arteries. A proper diet limited in saturated fats and rich in fiber is essential.
- Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of heart disease and improves overall cardiovascular health.
“By prioritizing prevention and raising awareness, we can reduce the impact of heart disease for all individuals, especially for those at highest risk,” said OCHS CEO Dr. Damian Archer. “Whether it’s through routine screenings, managing blood pressure, or participating in Wear Red Day, every small step makes a big diQerence.”
About Outer Cape Health Services:
Outer Cape Health Services is a community health center organization with locations in Harwich Port, Provincetown, and Wellfleet. Our mission is to provide a full range of primary health care and supportive social services that promote the health and well-being of all who live in or visit the ten outermost towns of Cape Cod. OCHS cares for more than 18,000 patients annually, and no one is denied access to services due to an inability to pay. Founded in 1987 through the merger of Health Associates of Provincetown and the AIM Medical Center in Wellfleet, Outer Cape Health has a long history of successful growth and expansion in pursuit of this mission. Outer Cape Health Services, Inc. (OCHS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and is governed by a Board of Directors representative of its community. All board members live on Cape Cod, and the majority are OCHS patients.
For additional information about Outer Cape Health Services, click here.