Achill Island community is leading the way in the fight against heart disease by working with local heart charity Croí, in partnership with HSE West Mayo PCCC (Primary, Community & Continuing Care ) by launching the inaugural Achill Healthy Heart Week from April 20 to April 24.
Commencing on Monday, April 20 from 9.30am to 4pm, islanders have the opportunity to avail of a free Heart Smart cardiovascular check-up at Halla Acla, The Fairgreen, Achill Sound. This check-up is available to everyone over 40 years of age, who has not attended a GP in the last year for a cholesterol check.
The Heart Smart cardiac risk assessment offers a cholesterol, glucose and blood pressure check, together with an assessment of BMI (body mass index ), nutrition, and physical activity. Places for these check-up are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with each assessment lasting approximately 25 minutes.
Alternatively, islanders have the opportunity to avail of this cardiovascular check-up from 9.30am to 4pm on Tuesday April 21 in the Health Centre, Mulranny (beside Costcutters ), or on Friday April 24 in the Community Centre, Ballycroy.
In addition, all members of the Achill and neighbouring communities have the opportunity to attend a meeting on preventing and treating heart disease in the west of Ireland, which will take place on Wednesday April 22 at 8pm in the Achill Sound Hotel. The guest speaker is Dr Jim Crowley, consultant cardiologist, University Hospital Galway. Admission is free.
On Thursday April 23 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm in the Achill Sound Hotel learn a lifesaving skill by attending a CPR training course. Places on this course must be booked in advance by calling Alma on 091 893500 or 087 921 7574 and cost just €10 per person.
For further information on any aspect of Achill Healthy Heart Week contact Ailish Houlihan on 094 904 9055.
