Augusta University to host Heart Failure Information Expo

Heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure, affects nearly six million Americans and results from the heart muscle not pumping blood as well as it should. Contributing factors to this condition may vary, and treatments are available to help patients live longer while improving quality of life.

In an effort to raise awareness about heart failure, the Augusta University Medical Center will host a Heart Failure Information Expo from 8 a.m. until noon on Feb. 13 in the lobby of the Children’s Hospital of Georgia. This event is free and open to the community.

The event will include vendors checking blood pressure, glucose levels and sleep apnea, and members of the medical center’s  Department of Pastoral Care will be on hand to discuss matters such as advance directives and hospice resources.

“Unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking and eating foods high in fat, can increase one’s risk of heart failure, but early detection is one of the best ways to improve the quality of life of someone who has this disease,” said Deborah Crew, the Heart Failure Program coordinator at the AU Medical Center. “I am delighted Augusta University is offering this expo to our community because I know it will save lives as well as help shed more light on a condition that impacts so many lives.”

Heart Failure Awareness Week is Feb. 10-16, and this is the first year the university will be participating in the week-long national initiative. Learn more about the AU Medical Center’s Heart and Cardiovascular Center.