More than 17,400 people across San Diego County answered the call to Love Your Heart on Valentine’s Day by getting their blood pressure checked.
The County Health and Human Services Agency teamed up with more than 90 organizations and businesses to offer free screenings at more than 200 locations, including fire stations, libraries, community centers, health clinics, businesses and County facilities. This was the third year the County and participating organizations hosted the screenings on Valentine’s Day.
“San Diego County residents this year took the screenings to heart and more people got checked than the previous two years combined,” said Chairwoman Dianne Jacob, County Board of Supervisors. “The success was largely due to all our partners who hosted screening sites, which made it possible for many residents to get checked near where they live or work.”
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and the second leading cause of death in San Diego County. Obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and a family history of heart disease can put an individual at greater risk.
“For some people, getting their blood pressure checked delivers a wake-up call,” said Supervisor Ron Roberts. “It’s great to see that so many people were able to take that first important step to leading a healthier life by getting screened at a Love Your Heart site.”
Love Your Heart supports Live Well San Diego, the County’s ongoing initiative to improve the health and safety of residents in the region.
“Love Your Heart is a good example of Live Well San Diego in action,” said Nick Macchione, director of the County Health and Human Services Agency. “When you get many diverse partners focused on the same goal, we can make a real difference in the lives of residents.”
For a list of Love Your Heart participating organizations, go to www.loveyourheartsd.org.
