Why should you have a heart assessment? Because knowing your numbers could save your life. Cardiovascular disease is the number-one killer for men and women in the United States. More than one million Americans die of heart attacks each year. Studies have shown that individuals can reduce their risk of heart disease by up to 82 percent by becoming aware of their risk and making lifestyle changes. Early detection can lead to prevention or more successful treatment, which is why knowing and understanding your numbers for heart disease is so important.

The University of Tennessee Medical Center offers the 4 Your Heart program, which is a preventive comprehensive cardiac health assessment that evaluates an individual’s risk of developing heart disease and educates him about the importance of knowing his numbers.

4 Your Heart helps an individual improve his health by knowing and understanding his numbers. These numbers are derived from diagnostic tests that include total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, glucose, blood pressure, 12 lead EKG and Body Mass Index score. A cardiac nurse specialist will help develop an individualized lifestyle plan to help improve those numbers. Recommendations from a cardiologist also will be provided.

Get yourself peace of mind regarding your heart health today. 4 Your Heart appointments are available weekly throughout the year, by calling 865.305.6970 or toll-free 1.877.UT.CARES (1.877.882.2737).

Click here for more information on the Heart Lung Vascular Institute.