Retailers offer free heart attack-risk screenings Feb.18

(ARA) Your Valentine might be making your heart flutter this February, but the signs of heart disease could be less obvious.

Cardiovascular disease is the No.1 killer of both men and women in the United States. It claims more women's lives than breast cancer, and one in four men has some form of the disease.

February is American Heart Month, and people can take a test to help protect themselves against cardiovascular disease.

All Wal-Mart stores and Sam's Club locations nationwide are offering free blood pressure and cholesterol screenings during the third annual National Healthy Heart Community Event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Feb. 18.

It only takes three easy steps to significantly reduce the risk factors associated with heart disease - learn, evaluate, live.

• Learn: Participating stores will provide educational information to help shoppers learn more about how to identify, manage, and reduce the risk factors for heart disease. Take a self-risk assessment based on age, family history, diet, and other factors to help determine whether you should see your doctor. Pick up a free Resource Book that discusses early detection and preventive measures, such as dietary changes, exercise, and an aspirin regimen.

• Evaluate: Free blood pressure and cholesterol screenings will be conducted by health-care personnel from a national screening company. No appointment is needed. Early signs of heart disease, including high blood pressure and high cholesterol, might not have visible symptoms, but they can be evaluated through simple screenings.

• Live: Knowledge gives you the power to live a heart healthy life. During the event, complimentary heart healthy samples will be available. Many of these foods and products are cornerstones to building a healthy lifestyle. Evaluate your meal planning and try to eat healthier. Take vitamins, exercise more, and try to maintain a healthy weight.

"American Heart Month is a great opportunity to educate our customers and members on the steps they can take to a healthier heart," said Art Alderson, Wal-Mart's vice president of pharmacy.

"Past healthy heart events at Wal-Mart stores and Sam's Club locations have helped thousands of people identify their heart risk factors and prompt them to visit their doctor and learn more. We are hopeful that many more people will use this opportunity to live a healthier life."