Managing hypertension is focus of upcoming Center for Healthy Living program

The Center for Healthy Living is offering a five-week program focused on managing hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. Participants must have a diagnosis of hypertension as identified by a Center for Healthy Living provider or through self-referral with approved documentation from a community provider. 

"Heart disease can affect groups of people in different ways. It is important to know the risk factors associated with the disease and how it can be prevented through lifestyle choices and regular wellness screenings," says Jodi Briggs, certified health and wellness coach. "As part of the center's emphasis on heart health, we will now offer a workshop series regularly on Tuesdays centered on hypertension and cholesterol in what we call the Heart-to-Heart series."

The first of these two workshops will focus on hypertension and will feature a presentation by an Employee Assistance Program counselor on stress-relief techniques in an effort to control blood pressure. In addition, the center's registered dietitian, Ellen Welch, will demonstrate how to build a flavorful, healthy snack low in sodium.

This comprehensive education and self-management program will take place in the center's conference room and is tailored to assist individuals with high blood pressure learn more about the condition in order to stay healthy and prevent complications.

The course is offered from noon to 12:50 p.m. on Tuesdays beginning Feb. 23 and running through March 29; no class will be held the week of March 14 due to spring break.

 Register by Monday (Feb. 22) by calling 49-45505. Limited seats are available for this small group format.

The center is open 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday. Lab hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For medical consultation after hours or on weekends, contact the Anthem NurseLine at 888-279-5449 for assistance.