Westmoreland Health Officials Target 2,000 Hypertension Screenings During Heart Month

Health officials in Westmoreland are looking to screen at least 2,000 individuals for hypertension during Heart Month, being observed throughout February, as part of efforts to encourage early detection and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

This was disclosed by Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Marcia Graham, during her address to the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation’s monthly meeting in Savanna-la-Mar on February 12.

She explained that the parish was assigned this target as part of a broader initiative to raise awareness and encourage regular health checks.

“We have been challenged by the National Health Fund (NHF) to measure at least 2,000 blood pressures in Westmoreland for the month,” Dr. Graham stated.

She noted that blood-pressure checks are being made widely accessible through health centres and other community-based locations, providing residents with multiple opportunities to get screened.

Meanwhile, the Medical Officer emphasised the importance of residents knowing their blood pressure numbers and taking proactive steps to safeguard their health.

Against this background, she encourages residents to take advantage of diagnostic services, which have become more affordable through subsidies provided by the NHF.

“We want you to make use of these tests because we are now making it more affordable for you to know what your health status is,” Dr. Graham said.

February is being observed as Heart Month under the theme ‘Heart Attack – Could It Be You?’, which highlights the importance of early detection and prevention of cardiovascular disease.