A heart felt message from the Macksville Medical Centre

The Macksville Medical Centre is raising awareness of heart disease as part of Heart Week, 6th – 12^th May, 2024.

Heart Week is an opportunity for the Australian public and health professionals to start a conversation about heart health and take positive steps to reduce their heart disease risk.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Australia, with a person dying every half an hour, according to the Heart Foundation. More worrying is that two thirds of at-risk people ignore their symptoms.

There are many types of heart disease, and a lot are often preventable. So, how do you prevent it?

“Regular exercise, eating well, avoiding smoking, and going to see a doctor regularly can also prevent long-term health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol issues” advises Doctor Sangita Khobragade from the Macksville Medical Centre.

The Macksville Medical Centre has decorated their office to promote heart disease awareness and at the same time entering the annual Heart Foundation creative display competition held in medical facilities nationwide.

“If the office display encourages just one person to consider their health and book a heart check-up it will be a great week,” said Casey Shorter, Practice Manager.

According to the Heart Foundation, if you are aged 45 and over and do not already have heart disease, it is recommended to see your doctor for a Medicare-subsidised Heart Health Check. Some people may be eligible earlier, including First Nations people, and those 35 and over, who are living with diabetes.

Patients can contact the Macksville Medical Centre on 02 6568 1155 to arrange an appointment.