February is American Heart Month, and the Wake County Justice Center is glowing red in support with a series of fun and heart-healthy activities for community members to participate in. From fitness challenges to life-saving CPR classes, there’s something for everyone.
"Heart disease affects millions, but small lifestyle changes can make a big difference," said Wake County Board of Commissioners Vice Chair Don Mial. “Whether you join a heart-healthy walk, learn CPR or dance your way through our exercise-a-thon, we invite everyone to get moving and take charge of their heart health this month.”
Heart Healthy Events and Activities
Wake County Health and Human Services’ Health Promotion Division is partnering with Wake County Public Libraries, Wake EMS and Wake County Parks, Recreation and Open Space to offer a variety of events and activities throughout the month of February.
- National Wear Red Day: Friday, Feb. 7
Join millions of people across the country wearing red and bringing attention to heart disease in women. - Heart Health Exercise-a-thon: Saturday, Feb. 22, 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Wake County Commons Building, 4011 Carya Drive, Raleigh
A heart-pounding event of exercise and fun that includes Zumba, group fitness, and line dancing. All participants will receive lunch, water, and a variety of incentives/prizes. Space is limited, and participants (15+ years and older) must register.
Heart health educational materials will also be on display and distributed at various community events throughout the county.
Wake County Public Libraries to Provide Blood Pressure Monitors in Select Libraries
Wake County is partnering with the American Heart Association to make blood pressure monitors available for checkout in six libraries across the region. Residents with a library card can check out the kits for free. Organizers hope to expand this pilot program to other libraries in the future.
Participating libraries include:
- East Regional Library in Knightdale
- Fuquay-Varina Community Library in Fuquay-Varina
- Green Road Community Library in Raleigh
- Richard B. Harrison Community Library in Raleigh
- Southeast Regional Library in Garner
- Wake Forest Community Library in Wake Forest
Wake County EMS Hands-Only CPR
American Heart Month is the perfect time to learn to save a life with CPR. According to the American Heart Association, over 350,000 people die of sudden cardiac arrest outside of the hospital each year. Bystanders and family members can provide vital support that will dramatically increase a victim's chances for survival. In one study, those who received bystander CPR within two minutes of their cardiac arrest had an 81% greater chance of survival.
Wake County EMS offers free hands-only CPR classes to the public on the first Tuesday of each month. The next class is today, Feb. 4, from 6–8 p.m. You can find more information, including all upcoming dates and the registration form, on the EMS webpage.
Heart Healthy Trails
During February, Wake County Parks, Recreation and Open Space is partnering with Wake County Health and Human Services to feature a special “heart healthy” trail at each of its parks and preserves.
Visitors can be on the lookout for the special sign at the trailhead and follow along for heart health information and tips.
Know Your Risks and Save a Life
It’s important to know the facts about heart disease. Health conditions, lifestyle, age and family history can increase your risk for heart disease. While you can’t change your age or family history, you can take steps to lower your risk by changing the factors you can control:
- Managing your blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Preventing or managing diabetes
- Avoiding tobacco use
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting regular physical activity
According to the American Heart Association, heart attack symptoms include:
- Chest discomfort, such as uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain
- Discomfort in other areas of the upper body like the arms, neck, jaw, or stomach
- Shortness of breath (with or without chest discomfort)
- Cold sweats
- Nausea or lightheadedness
As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort, but women may experience other symptoms that are typically less associated with heart attack, such as shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.
For more information on Heart Health Month activities, visit wake.gov/hearthealth.