The Ohio State University recently reached a major milestone in promoting cardiovascular health by conducting over 100,000 screenings to detect potential heart-related issues and providing resources for healthier living. This initiative was led by a team of faculty, staff, and students from the Colleges of Nursing and Pharmacy, who conducted screenings at Thompson Library.
Kate Gawlik, associate professor of clinical nursing, explained that the screenings included blood pressure checks, stress assessments, and body mass index calculations, as well as discussions about smoking, exercise, and diet. The focus was on individualized cardiovascular risk reduction to help participants make positive lifestyle changes.
For more than ten years, Ohio State has collaborated with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Million Hearts program and is the only institution of higher education in the country to do so. The university developed the Million Hearts online fellowship program, resulting in over 100,000 Americans being screened and educated about heart health. As a testament to their impact, the CDC designated Ohio State and the Wexner Medical Center as a Million Hearts Health System in 2021.
The importance of this initiative is underscored by the fact that heart disease is the leading cause of death in Ohio and the nation. Ohio was ranked 11th in the country in death rate from heart disease in 2021. Gawlik emphasized the preventability of cardiovascular disease, stating that 80% of cases are preventable through lifestyle behavior changes. Encouraging early detection and education can significantly reduce the prevalence of cardiovascular disease.
Adeline Racan, a nursing major, highlighted the impact of the screenings on the university community, emphasizing how small actions can lead to substantial impacts. The screenings typically lasted between 15 and 20 minutes, and she encouraged the community to take advantage of the opportunity and appreciated the engagement of those who participated.
Moving forward, the program aims to continue educating healthcare professional students and professionals on the Million Hearts initiative to support screenings throughout the community. Gawlik reiterated the importance of preventive measures, stating that cardiovascular disease is preventable, and simple lifestyle changes can significantly decrease the risk and lead to early detection.
Overall, Ohio State’s commitment to promoting cardiovascular health through screenings and education has had a profound and far-reaching impact, benefiting both the university community and the broader population. By encouraging proactive measures and lifestyle changes, they are actively working to reduce the prevalence of heart-related issues and promote healthier living.
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