Heart Health Week - 5th - 11th May 2025

Heart Week 2025 at Molonglo Valley Medical Centre – Let's Prioritise Your Heart Health! ❤️

Heart Week is just around the corner! From 5th to 11th May 2025, we invite all our patients at Molonglo Valley Medical Centre to join us in raising awareness about the importance of heart health and the steps we can take to prevent cardiovascular disease.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of death in Australia — but with the right information and early action, it’s often preventable. This Heart Week, we're focusing not only on heart health basics but also on important related conditions like diabetes and dyslipidaemia (abnormal cholesterol levels), which significantly increase the risk of heart problems.

The Link Between Diabetes, Dyslipidaemia, and Heart Disease

People with diabetes are up to four times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and the nerves that control your heart. Similarly, dyslipidaemia — which includes high LDL ("bad" cholesterol), low HDL ("good" cholesterol), and high triglycerides — contributes to plaque build-up in arteries, leading to heart attacks and strokes.

Managing these conditions is crucial to protecting your heart health. Regular monitoring, healthy lifestyle choices, and the right medical support can dramatically reduce your risks.

How You Can Look After Your Heart

Here are some key ways to protect your heart:

• Eat a balanced diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days.
• Stop smoking: We offer support to help you quit.
• Moderate alcohol consumption: Stick to recommended limits.
• Manage stress: Mindfulness, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques can make a big difference.
• Monitor your health: Know your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.

Services We Offer During Heart Week

At Molonglo Valley Medical Centre, we’re committed to helping you take charge of your heart health. Throughout Heart Week, we are offering:

• Medicare-Subsidised Heart Health Checks:
  If you’re aged 45 years and over (or 30 years and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples), you may be eligible for a comprehensive Heart Health Check — fully subsidised by Medicare. This check includes a review of your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar levels, weight, lifestyle factors, and overall cardiovascular risk.
• Diabetes and Cholesterol Management Plans:
  If you are living with diabetes or dyslipidaemia, we can help you set up a management plan to better control your health and lower your heart disease risk.
• Smoking Cessation Support:
  Our doctors and nurses offer counselling and medications to support you in quitting smoking.
• Healthy Lifestyle Advice:
  Speak with our team about practical changes to your diet, exercise routine, and mental health practices.

Book Your Heart Health Check Today!

Heart disease prevention starts with knowing your risk. To book your Medicare-subsidised Heart Health Check, contact our reception team on      02 5110 3155 or book online @ www.molonglovalleymedicalcentre.com.au.

Together, we can build a healthier future — starting with your heart. ❤️