Genesis Healthcare promotes heart health during Heart Month and beyond
(L to R): Neal Zimmerman, Executive Director and Lisa Bailey, Director of Philanthropy, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee; Howard Nettles, Director of Community Outreach & Engagement at Genesis Healthcare, Decar Brown, Director of Operations, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee; Brittany Douglas, Senior Development Director, American Heart Association of the Pee Dee Area. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
(Genesis employees, L to R):
Belan Benson-Bess, CMA, Lauren Barberan, FNP-C, Sara Boulware, PharmD, Shakina Starr, Front Desk Clerk, Geneva Addison, FNP-C, Keyairria Ervin, RMA, Angel Thompson, FNP-C, Megan Self, Front Desk Clerk. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
February marked American Heart Month, and across South Carolina, Genesis Healthcare has championed the cause of heart health through community partnerships and initiatives.
To promote heart health throughout the regions they serve in February 2024, Genesis Healthcare distributed CPR kits to organizations and hosted Wear Red Day festivities at all their locations, including visits from the American Heart Association mascot. Genesis Healthcare furthered its commitment by sponsoring the Tribute Tree at the American Heart Association’s Pee Dee Heart Ball, held in Florence on February 24, encouraging guests to remember or honor loved ones affected by heart disease and stroke.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in South Carolina, with women and African Americans experiencing a higher mortality rate. Simple lifestyle modifications and preventive measures can decrease the risks associated with heart disease and stroke. To support individuals in their journey towards better cardiovascular health during American Heart Month and beyond, Genesis Healthcare encourages community members to follow the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8 tips:
Eat Better: Embrace a healthy eating pattern that includes whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and cooking oils such as olive and canola.
Be More Active: Strive for at least 2.5 hours of moderate exercise per week for adults and 60 minutes daily for children, to include both play and structured activities.
Quit Tobacco: Eliminate the use of tobacco products, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes and vaping, to reduce the risk of heart disease and associated health complications.
Get Healthy Sleep: Prioritize adequate sleep duration, aiming for 7 to 9 hours for adults and age-appropriate durations for children, as quality sleep promotes healing and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
Manage Weight: Maintain a healthy weight by monitoring body mass index (BMI) and consulting healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and support.
Control Cholesterol: Monitor non-HDL cholesterol levels, which are indicative of heart disease risk, and adopt measures to manage cholesterol levels effectively.
Manage Blood Sugar: Keep blood sugar levels within recommended ranges to prevent complications associated with diabetes and promote overall heart health.
Manage Blood Pressure: Maintain optimal blood pressure levels to reduce the risk of heart disease and promote longevity.
“Keeping our heart healthy can be complicated. But, to keep it simple, we want to eat right, stay active, and strive for overall wellness by getting proper sleep, quitting tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, and keeping our blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol under control,” said Isaac Snapp, DMSc, MSPAS, PA-C, physician Assistant at Genesis Healthcare. “We can use the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8 as a guide to a better, healthier heart. And remember, start small, keep it simple; a little change can go a long way.”
Genesis Healthcare remains committed to empowering individuals and communities to prioritize heart health and lead fulfilling, healthy lives. Through its outreach efforts and partnerships, Genesis Healthcare underscores its dedication to cardiovascular wellness and preventive care. For additional information on heart health and to assess personal heart health status using Life’s Essential 8, visit heart.org/MyLifeCheck.
Genesis Healthcare is a nationally recognized healthcare provider committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate, and affordable care to the communities of Darlington, Florence, Lamar, Olanta, Goose Creek and Walterboro. With a focus on accessibility, excellence, and innovation, Genesis Healthcare strives to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of individuals and families. For more information, visit genesisfqhc.org.