Making Beneficial Lifestyle Choices in Hopkins County

Counties in the Pennyrile area have a higher-than-state-average incidence of death by heart disease and stroke, according to Kentucky vital statistics records, with cardiovascular disease (CVD) a leading cause of death each year. A series of cardiovascular health classes, were taught to 90 Extension Homemaker members by the Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences. Types of CVD, risk factors for CVD, common diagnostic tests, and heart-healthy food preparation techniques were discussed. Modifiable risk factors were emphasized, including blood pressure, cigarette smoking, obesity, alcohol intake, blood cholesterol, sedentary lifestyle, Type II diabetes, diet, and stress. In a post survey, 95% of the participants stated they learned to choose foods low in saturated fat and high in soluble fiber.

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