February is American Heart Month
Cardiovascular disease continues to be the nation’s top cause of death, according to the American Heart Association. Throughout the month of February, you can help raise your own and others’ awareness of heart health by participating in a variety of activities on campus and online.
National Wear Red Day activities Feb. 5
Join UF Health for National Wear Red Day on Friday, Feb. 5, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., to help raise awareness about heart disease. Learn how to perform hands-only CPR, learn how automated external defibrillator (AED) simulators work, get your blood pressure taken and find out how you can detect an early heart attack.
This free health fair event will be held at UF Health Shands, 1600 SW Archer Road, in the first floor atrium. Be sure to wear RED and join in the group photo at noon.
Heart health screenings throughout February
Participate in a free blood pressure and body composition screening sponsored by GatorCare and the UF-UF Health Wellness Committee. The screening provides information on blood pressure, weight, BMI, body fat and hydration, and ends with a mini health coaching session.
Screenings are scheduled for locations throughout UF and UF Health. Check the Wellness Calendar for the most up-to-date list. Don’t see a location near you? Set up a screening for your area by emailing GatorCare Wellness Coordinator Morgan Papworth.
Join UF in the BHAC National Challenge and help to save a Million Hearts!
Throughout the month of February, participate in the Building Healthy Academic Communities (BHAC) National Challenge by learning about the ABCs of cardiovascular disease and encourage students, faculty and staff to join you in the learning process.
To participate, create an account and complete the online educational modules during the month of February that will empower you to improve your own cardiovascular health and educate others on how best to live a heart healthy life. The top three higher education institutions with the most participants will be awarded wellness funds toward wellness programs, so be sure indicate your affiliation with the University of Florida when creating your account.
Visit go.osu.edu/millionhearts and select the “BHAC Million Hearts Challenge” to get started.
Interested in improving your heart health through running? Watch this month’s Wellness Wednesday for tips on Healthy Running.
