Shelley Scott, executive director, Flamborough Information and Community Services
Most people think of heart disease as one condition. But in fact, heart disease is a group of conditions affecting the structure and functions of the heart and has many root causes. Coronary artery disease, for example, develops when a combination of fatty materials, calcium and scar tissue (called plaque) builds up in the arteries that supply blood to your heart (coronary arteries). The plaque buildup narrows the arteries and prevents the heart from getting enough blood.
Your best defence against heart disease is controlling the risk factors that could lead to coronary artery disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, stress, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity and being overweight.
If you’ve been diagnosed with a heart condition, there are treatments to help you manage your illness. You can further reduce your risk by considering these heart-healthy steps: be smoke-free; be physically active; know and control your blood pressure; eat a healthy diet that is low in fat, especially saturated and trans fat; achieve and maintain a healthy weight; manage your diabetes; limit alcohol use; reduce stress and visit your doctor regularly and follow your doctor’s advice.
On the calendar
The 55-Alive Driver’s Ed course is conducted by instructors recruited by the Canada Safety Council. The six-hour course offered by FICS at Sealey Park Hall in Waterdown will be given in two sessions: Thursday, March 8 and Thursday, March 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The cost is $25 plus $13 for the workbook. For more information and to book space for the course call 905-689-7880.
Flamborough Information and Community Services is offering free income tax clinics to individuals who have an income below $20,000 (no dependents) or $30,000 (with dependents). Individuals with rental income and/or business income do not qualify regardless of the amount of income, nor do we prepare returns for clients who have passed away. Call 905-689-7880 to make an appointment.
Submitted by Shelley Scott at Flamborough Information and Community Services
