Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women. To prevent heart disease and increase awareness of its effects, Davis Medical Center is proudly participating in American Heart Month. Locally, over 11% of Randolph County’s population is affected by heart disease.

On Thursday, Feb. 13, Davis Medical Center is sponsoring a Healthy Heart Forum that offers participants cardiac-specific health screenings, nutritious refreshments, and a panel discussion on heart health by Dr. Chalak Berzingi of the WVU Heart & Vascular Institute.

In addition, DMC registered dietician Sonya Phares-Weiford, RDN, and DMC physical therapist Julie Fleming, PT will provide information on nutrition and exercise strategies that support cardiovascular health.

Each year DMC’s Cardiac Rehab program organizes this important community health event. Lisa Crumm, RN, oversees the DMC Cardiac Rehab program, and urges anyone with concerns or questions about their cardiac health to attend.

“The Heart Forum is like a visit to a cardiac specialist and a nutritionist at one time, and at no cost. The information is so valuable, and we always plan time for attendees to ask specific questions to the panel,” she said.

Crumm added that the following screenings will be provided at no charge: Body Mass Index (BMI), and body fat analysis.

Seating at the Forum is limited and reservations are required. The event is free and open to the public. Call 304.637.3623 for information or to reserve your space.

About Davis Medical Center Cardiac Rehab: The cardiac rehab program offers both Phase I and Phase II rehabilitation. Phase II is a medically monitored program designed for patients following a cardiac health event such as open-heart surgery, cardiomyopathy, or congestive heart failure. Physician referral is required for Phase II rehabilitation. Phase III is an outpatient program that offers supervised exercise for patients with cardiovascular disease. The DMC Cardiac Rehab Program is certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR).