In a powerful demonstration of preventative health care, FOX 2’s Healthy Heart Project in partnership with Henry Ford Providence is providing critical screenings that are helping individuals catch life-threatening heart conditions before they become irreversible. The recent event, held across multiple locations in Southeast Michigan, revealed the importance of early detection in preventing heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States.
Joe Smith, a local Metro Detroiter, shared his life-changing experience at the screening. Despite feeling unwell for some time, he didn’t realize the severity of his condition until the screening revealed the alarming truth.
“I was experiencing shortness of breath and lightheadedness, especially when bending over,” Smith recalled. “It wasn’t until my wife encouraged me to get tested that I learned my heart was in real danger.”
The screening uncovered that Smith had atrial fibrillation (AFib) and heart failure. Following a thorough diagnosis, he began treatment with a cardiologist, ultimately saving his life.
“Last year, I found out just in time,” Smith said. “I’m so grateful I came in for the test.”
Now a passionate volunteer, Smith helps others through the Healthy Heart Project, urging people to take preventative steps for their heart health. “I feel great now,” he added.
This year’s screening event was highlighted by an EKG test, one of the most crucial diagnostic tools for identifying heart issues. Dr. Steven McGraw, a cardiologist involved in the event, explained how the EKG helps monitor the heart’s electrical activity, identifying any irregularities or damage that could signal serious conditions.
“The EKG provides a comprehensive picture of the heart’s rhythm, including any scarring or abnormal beats,” Dr. McGraw said. “While it’s often used to diagnose heart attacks, it can reveal much more about heart health.”
The Healthy Heart Project took place at six different Henry Ford locations on Saturday, where volunteers, doctors, nurses, and staff assisted hundreds of participants in screening for heart rhythm, blood pressure, blood sugar, BMI, and lifestyle habits. As heart disease remains the nation’s leading cause of death, the screenings offered critical insights, especially as symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for less serious issues.
Charlie, another participant, shared his experience at the screening. After undergoing the EKG, he expressed confidence in making lifestyle changes to improve his heart health.
“My plan is to eat healthier and cut back on portion sizes,” Charlie said. “No more junk food for me.”
Doctors at the event emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy weight, monitoring blood pressure, and watching for signs of heart issues, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pressure. Ideal blood pressure should be 120/80 or lower.
As this year’s screening concluded, many participants left feeling empowered to make healthier choices, with the knowledge that early intervention could help prevent future heart complications. The FOX 2 Healthy Heart Project continues to offer these essential screenings to improve heart health in the community, saving lives one test at a time.
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