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Valentine gala to promote healthy hearts
Posted 2/8/2011 Updated 2/8/2011
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by Staff Sgt. Rachel Martinez
35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
2/8/2011 - MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- This month, Misawa residents are asked to focus on their hearts as part of American Heart Month.
Since 1963, the President of the United States of America has declared February as American Heart Month "in acknowledgement of the importance of the ongoing fight against cardiovascular disease," according to the presidential proclamation.
To raise awareness, the Health and Wellness Center is hosting a Valentine's Day gala titled, "Don't let your heart be broken," February 11 at the club. In addition to a night of dining and dancing, the gala will include a presentation from a medical expert on heart disease risk factors and prevention. Attendees are asked to wear red in an effort to increase awareness of the disease. Profits from the event will benefit the American Heart Association.
"The gala is an event to let the Misawa population know about the risks of heart disease and how to prevent it," said Maj. Cynthia Pouncey, 35th Aerospace Medicine Squadron health promotions flight commander. "It's going to be a fun night, but also an educational and informative night."
The biggest thing people should know about heart disease is that it can affect anyone and everyone, said Major Pouncey. It is the leading cause of death in the U.S.
"There are no boundaries for this disease," she said. "It's important to know your risks and what healthy lifestyle changes can decrease your risks."
One of the biggest contributing factors to heart disease is tobacco use, said Major Pouncey. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce the risk factors, she added. Those people looking for more information on hear t disease should consult their physician; however the HAWC has some programs to help reduce the risk.
"The HAWC is a health promotion entity," Major Pouncey said. "We help people with tobacco cessation, nutrition and exercise. And we are not just geared to active duty. We are here to help anyone." |
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