Cholesterol Education Month

BINGHAMTON, NY - A cholesterol level that is too high may lead to hardening of the arteries, heart disease and a heart attack. But, you can lower your cholesterol by getting more physical activity, following a healthy eating plan and not smoking.

According to Jan Chytilo, Director of Health Education, Broome County Health Department, now is a good time to learn more about staying healthy. "September is Cholesterol Education Month, a good time to get a simple cholesterol test and know your cholesterol number," she said. "It's the first step toward cutting your risk of heart disease."

Heart disease is the number one cause of death for men and women nationally and in Broome County. Therefore, it is just as important for women to monitor their cholesterol levels. Before menopause, most women have cholesterol levels that are lower than those of men of the same age, but after menopause, most women's cholesterol levels tend to rise.

Cholesterol is a waxy fat found in your blood and all of your body's cells. Your body makes some of it - the rest comes from either cholesterol in animal products that you eat (meat, eggs and dairy) or foods that contain saturated fats and cause your body to make cholesterol. Cholesterol can build up in arteries and partially block the flow of blood. If the blood flow to your heart is affected, your heart's ability to function is limited, and you may suffer heart disease or a heart attack.

The National Cholesterol Education Program recommends that healthy adults 20 years of age and older have a cholesterol test once every five years. Those with other risks for coronary heart disease, such as smoking, obesity, diabetes, or a previous heart attack or stroke, may need more frequent tests.

A cholesterol level below 200 is considered desirable, between 200 and 239 is considered borderline-high, and 240 or more is considered high. Cholesterol levels tend to increase as you grow older. How much you engage in physical activity, what you eat, and whether or not you smoke affect your cholesterol levels. High cholesterol can run in families. Also, some people have rare disorders that cause very high levels.

To lower your cholesterol, Ms. Chytilo suggests the following:

• Eat a wide variety of foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol;
• Eat at least five servings of vegetables and fruits every day;
• Eat six or more servings of whole-grain products, such as pasta and cereals;
• Strive to get 30 minutes of physical activity on most or all days of the week;
• Maintain a healthy weight, and
• If you smoke, try to quit. Smoking is the biggest risk factor for heart disease.

For more information about cholesterol, contact the Broome County Health Department at 607.778.3944. For information about trying to quit smoking, contact Broome/Tioga PREVENT or visit the website at www.tobaccofreebt.org (link changed 2005-11-10), or call the NY State Smokers Quitline at 1.866.NYQUITS.

CONTACT:
Jan Chytilo, Supervising Public Health Educator,
Broome County Health Department, 607.778.3944
email: jcchytilo@co.broome.ny.us

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