The Importance of Cardiac Health

At FHCA Orlando we care about the importance of Cardiac Health, one of the many courses we offer grants certification in the operation of an electrocardiograph, which monitors the electrical activity of the heart, using a variety of electrodes placed on the skin.

Heart health is the single most important medical issue facing us as we age. The heart is the center of the cardiovascular system, pumping blood throughout the entire body. Heart disease is one of the single largest killers of Americans, claiming more than 600,000 lives per year. That is one in every four American deaths as a result of heart disease. A staggering 25%.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women, discriminating not one iota based on gender or race. The most common form of heart disease is coronary heart disease, which kills over 370,000 people annually.

Heart attacks occur in over 735,000 Americans every year, according to the United States center for disease control. Of those, 525,000 are a first heart attack, and 210,000 occur in individuals who have already suffered from one. Heart disease is not a temporary issue. It is something that must constantly be monitored and fought.

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking are some of the key factors that lead down the path to heart disease. Many medical conditions also can put undue strain upon the heart, leading to increased risk of heart disease. These include poor diet, diabetes, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, excessive use of alcohol.

Typically, when someone is complaining of heart related symptoms, the first test that is ordered is an electrocardiograph. Usually, this important test can safely identify key risk factors that could lead to a cardiac event, such as a heart attack.

As an electrocardiograph aide, you are on the front lines in the battle against heart disease. Your actions can help to save the lives of hundreds of Americans every year.

For more information on how you can help in this vital role, click here.