In observance of American Heart Month, Pella Regional Health Center will light up the outside of the hospital’s main entrance in red as a visual reminder for people to pay attention to their heart health. 

Cardiac Rehab will also host an open house on Friday, February 16th from 11 am to 1 pm at Pella Regional Health Center. They will serve heart-healthy snacks and share heart-healthy recipes. Those attending the open house are asked to use the parking lot on the corner of Jefferson and Hazel streets and use Entrance #7.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. According to the CDC, one person dies every 36 seconds in the United States from cardiovascular disease.

Staying on top of diet and exercise is the easiest way to prevent heart disease. A healthy diet consists mainly of lean meats (skinless chicken breast, fish), fresh fruits and vegetables, foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and foods high in fiber. Sodium intake should also be limited as much as possible. Regular exercise, such as walking, jogging, lifting weights, bicycling or yard work also plays a large role in your cardiovascular health. Pella Regional Health Center offers many tests and screenings for the early detection of heart disease, as well as many treatment options for those who suffer from cardiovascular problems.

Staff in Cardiac Services at Pella Regional Health Center recommends yearly physicals with your primary care provider as an important part of your total health picture. To schedule an appointment, call Pella Regional Health Center at 641-621-2200.