Know Your Numbers: A Community Guide to Everyday Heart Health Screening
Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, and many of its risk factors cause no symptoms for years. That is why "knowing your numbers" is one of the simplest and most useful things anyone can do for their heart. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Advanced Health Associates focuses on making this kind of preventive care easier to reach in the communities our affiliated practices serve.
Why screening matters
High blood pressure, high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes often develop quietly. People can feel completely well while these conditions put strain on the heart, blood vessels and kidneys. Regular screening finds them early, when lifestyle changes and treatment from a physician are most likely to help. Screening is also quick: most of these measurements take only a few minutes.
The numbers to know
Blood pressure
Blood pressure is written as two numbers, such as 118/76. The top number (systolic) is the pressure when your heart beats; the bottom number (diastolic) is the pressure between beats. According to the American Heart Association, a reading below 120/80 mm Hg is considered normal. Readings above that range deserve attention, and a physician should evaluate repeated high readings. One high reading does not mean you have hypertension; blood pressure varies, which is why repeat measurements matter.
Cholesterol
A lipid panel is a blood test that measures LDL ("bad") cholesterol, HDL ("good") cholesterol, triglycerides and total cholesterol. There is no single target that fits everyone: your physician interprets the results in light of your age, other conditions and family history.
Blood sugar
Fasting blood glucose or a hemoglobin A1c test can identify prediabetes and diabetes. Diabetes significantly raises the risk of heart disease and stroke, so finding it early is important.
Weight and waist
Body mass index (BMI) and waist measurement are rough but useful indicators. They are not a diagnosis, but they help a clinician understand overall risk.
How often should you check?
Recommendations depend on your age and health history. Many adults have their blood pressure checked at every routine medical visit, and cholesterol and blood sugar checked at intervals their physician recommends. People with Medicare can use their annual wellness visit to review which screenings are due. If you are not sure when you were last checked, that is a good reason to schedule a visit.
Warning signs not to ignore
Screening is for people without symptoms. Some symptoms need prompt medical attention instead: chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, fainting, sudden weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, or a sudden severe headache. If you have any of these, call 911.
Small steps that add up
You do not have to change everything at once. Practical steps many people start with include:
- Walking a little more each day, if your physician says it is safe for you
- Eating more vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans, and less highly processed food
- Paying attention to salt, which is common in restaurant and packaged foods
- Not smoking, and getting help to quit if you do
- Taking prescribed medications as directed and asking questions if side effects are a concern
Where to get screened
Our affiliated practices offer primary care and heart health services in Venice and Sarasota. The Venice office is at 1370 E Venice Ave, Suite 102 (941-412-0026), and Sarasota Medical Center is at 2830 Bee Ridge Rd (941-927-1234). Find details on our locations page and a summary of programs on our services page.
Patients who need a cardiology evaluation can be seen within the affiliated Advanced Health Associates network, including Sarasota Heart Center.
Supporting community health
As a nonprofit governed by a volunteer board, we reinvest in local care delivery, preventive screening and patient education. Learn more about our mission or how you can support our work.
This article is general health information, not medical advice. Talk with your physician about the screening schedule that is right for you.