Your Heart, Your Health: Discover Planet Heart
posted by Cara Rutter on Wednesday, February 19, 2025
February is American Heart Month—a time to focus on heart health and raise awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. Understanding your risk and taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the likelihood of heart attacks and other cardiovascular conditions.
Understanding Your Risk for Heart Disease
Heart disease often develops silently, with no obvious symptoms in its early stages. Common risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, tobacco use, obesity, and a family history of heart disease. Coronary artery disease, the primary cause of heart attacks, occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries, restricting blood flow. Because symptoms may not appear until a major event like a heart attack, early detection is crucial.
The Planet Heart Program at Spencer Hospital
Since 2010, Spencer Hospital has been committed to helping the community through the Planet Heart program. This affordable and convenient screening initiative identifies individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke, offering two primary screening options:
- Heart Check
- CT Calcium Score – A key tool for early detection of heart disease
- Blood pressure, BMI, cholesterol, and blood sugar checks
- Education and risk assessment
- Brief tobacco cessation and nutrition counseling
- Vascular Stroke Screening
- Ultrasound of the carotid arteries to detect blockages
- Ultrasound of the abdominal aorta to check for aneurysms
- Blood pressure tests at the arms and ankles to assess circulation
These screenings provide critical insights into cardiovascular health, empowering individuals to take action before symptoms arise.
Who Qualifies for Planet Heart
The Planet Heart program follows guidelines from the Iowa Department of Public Health and is available to:
- Men ages 40 and older
- Women ages 45 and older
Affordable Access to Life-Saving Screenings
One of the biggest advantages of Planet Heart is its affordability.
- Heart Check (including CT Calcium Score): $75
- Vascular Stroke Screening: $75
- Both screenings together: $125
Similar tests typically cost hundreds of dollars, but Spencer Hospital provides them at a reduced rate to ensure early detection of heart disease risks. While insurance does not cover the program, payment is due on the day of the exams.
How to Schedule an Appointment
No physician referral is needed, making it easy for eligible individuals to take advantage of this program. To schedule an appointment, call Spencer Hospital Diagnostic Imaging at (712) 264-6500.
Take Charge of Your Heart Health
Heart disease remains a major health concern, but early detection and proactive management can prevent serious complications. Programs like Planet Heart provide essential screenings that empower individuals to take control of their heart health. Over the years, Spencer Hospital has seen firsthand how this program has saved lives.
If you or a loved one meets the qualifications, consider scheduling a Planet Heart screening. Your heart is worth it!
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