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By JOYANNA LOVE/ Managing Editor

Ascension St. Vincent’s Chilton will be offering free blood pressure screenings at Senior Connection’s Chili Cook-off and Health Fair on Feb. 5 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Hospital Administrator Shanon Hamilton said the hospital was offering the screenings at the event again this year as a part of Heart Health Month.

“We feel that it is important to try to meet the needs of our community, and partnering with Senior Connection is a great way to do that,” Hamilton said.

Vouchers will also be given out to have a free cholesterol test done at Ascension St. Vincent’s Chilton on Lay Dam Road. These screenings have to be done when the person has not had anything to eat or drink that day.

Hamilton said providing these screenings creates “an easy way for patients to be able to assess their cardiac health.”

During the blood pressure screening, a nurse will check the person’s blood pressure and provide information about the results. Those whose screening shows their blood pressure is higher or lower than normal will be encouraged to see their primary care physician.

“High blood pressure not only impacts the heart; it can impact all organs,” Hamilton said. “We want to make sure we keep an eye on or assess our blood pressure, especially if we have a history of blood pressure, so we are not damaging our organs with prolonged hypertension.”

Hamilton has enjoyed attending the event in the past.

“It is great to see so many people come out and support Senior Connection, but also so many people that are interested in their health and looking for ways that they can live healthier, eat healthier,” Hamilton said. “Senior Connection is doing a wonderful job by promoting a healthy lifestyle.”

Another heart-related screening available through Ascension St. Vincent’s is calcium scoring exams to determine someone’s risk level for heart disease. The exam is usually not covered by insurance, and the cost is $49. Those interested in scheduling an exam can call 205-258-4500.