RALEIGH COUNTY, WV (WOAY) – West Virginia has poor cardiac health statistics, also stroke, hypertension, and diabetes.
These multi-factors affect people who already have troubling overall health.
Beckley ARH Stroke/Chest Pain Coordinator Courtney Jackson says they’re inactive, and their arteries are filled with plaque from all the processed and junk food consumed.
These lower-income families can’t afford to purchase healthier choices. So getting screened at the ARH Healthy Heart Fair can make a difference.
“We did this last year and sent two over to the ER (from this event) who ended up needing different cardiac procedures,” said Jackson. “We advertise it in places that can get to people who need it — the senior centers, places with lower income families.”
According to the stroke/chest pain coordinator, decreasing risk factors such as smoking and unhealthy diets in small steps can help every day.
