Heart Center offers free screenings

HUDSON - In recognition of "Heart Month," the Heart Institute at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point is providing promotional Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) screenings for the community.

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), more commonly known as hardening of the arteries, affects about 8 million Americans.

It is a condition in which the large and medium-sized arteries supplying blood to the legs become narrow or clogged, constricting the flow of blood.

PAD is caused by atherosclerosis, a gradual process in which cholesterol and scar tissue build up, forming a substance called plaque that clogs the artery. PAD not only causes pain and disability, it also is associated with a much higher risk of heart disease.

The Ankle/Brachial Index (ABI) screening measures the blood pressure in the lower legs compared to the blood pressure in the arms. During this test, blood pressure cuffs are placed on the arms and legs. The cuffs are inflated, while a hand-held device (called a Doppler) is used to listen to the blood flow in the leg and arm.

The ABI screening helps evaluate the amount of blood flow to the legs and feet, which is decreased in a person with PAD. It is a highly accurate method for detecting PAD.

The screenings will be held on Saturday, Feb. 27 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will take place at the Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, Entrance D.

Limited screenings are available.

Reservations are required for the screenings; no walk-ins will be taken on day of event. To register, call 727-869-5498 or 888-741-5119

For additional information on Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point visit www.rmchealth.com or www.heartoftampa.com.