Are You At Risk for Heart Disease?

Did you know that shoulder blade pain is a common symptom of women who are experiencing a heart attack? Or did you know that the size of your waist may be an indicator of a potential risk factor? This and other important information specific to the heart health of women can be learned from The Women's Heart Center at St. Joseph's Hospital. They have established an incredible program for promoting heart health of women and reducing the risk of heart disease. The 45 minute comprehensive cardiac risk assessment is available to women and as of last year men for a nominal fee of $30. Once making your appointment, a five-page questionnaire will be sent to you which will need to be completed prior to your arrival. The screening includes:

• A Complete Medical and Family History
• Physical Exam
• Blood Pressure Testing
• Cholesterol Testing and Blood Sugar
• Waist/Hip/Neck Measurement, Waist to Hip Ratio, Body Mass Index and Body Fat Analysis
• Ankle Brachial Index

After the examination an advanced practice nurse will present you with your results and specific recommendations to reduce your risk of heart disease. These services are available at either St. Joseph's Regional Medical Center in Paterson or St. Joseph's Wayne Hospital in Wayne. To schedule and appointment, please email Gail Thompson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Lucy Ortiz at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 973-754-2600. Further information regarding The Women's Heart Center can be found at http://www.stjosephswomensheart.org/.

The advanced practice nurses, Margaret Latrella, MSN, RN, APRN and Carolyn Strimike, MSN, RN, APRN that run the center are also available for speaking engagements. The "Healthy Heart Strategies for Women" presentation addresses each risk factor in detail. A second presentation addresses heart disease across the life span of women. Margie and Carolyn, who are both dynamic speakers, present for approximately one hour at no charge. They would be a wonderful and education addition at your next organization or company's event.