Heart health subject of Women’s History Month event

BATTLE CREEK, Mich. -

Defense Logistics Agency personnel in Battle Creek, Michigan, recently celebrated Women's History Month with a special presentation highlighting important health issues women face. The featured speaker was Nurse Practitioner Sirmara Pierce, who addressed the audience on the topic of women's heart health.

Pierce said that as she thought about a theme she could share, she decided on heart health. February had been Heart Health month, and she felt that the old misconception that heart disease mostly affects men is still widely believed.

Pierce focused her presentation on the significant risk that women face in relation to heart disease and discussed actionable steps that women can take to mitigate these risks.

She pointed out that the risk of heart disease in women begins to rise between the ages of 40 and 60 but the heart health message applies to younger women as well.

"Heart disease develops gradually over time and can start at a young age," Pierce said. "Older women also need to take action, because it's never too late to protect your heart."

But she said the good news is that heart disease can be prevented or controlled by making lifestyle changes.

"There's no quick fix for heart disease," Pierce said. "And if not treated, it can worsen and lead to disability and even death."

Pierce said some of the risks woman face when it comes to heart disease are high blood pressure, smoking, and physical inactivity.

She urged her audience to talk with their doctor and ask questions, like "What is my risk for heart disease? What is my blood pressure and what do I need to do about it? How can you help me quit smoking?"

"I can give you information," Pierce said. "But only you can make the changes. Keep in mind that taking action now can mean more years of healthy life for yourself and with those you love."

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