Keeping Healthy: "Makeover My Heart"

Heart Disease is the leading cause of death for women.  But, it doesn't have to be. In fact, Heart Disease can mostly be prevented. The tricky part? Recognizing symptoms and knowing the issues to watch.

"One is genetics, another one is our lifestyle, and that's a huge part of it, that's why 80% of heart disease can be prevented," says Health and Wellness expert Pat Salzer, "so it comes down to nutrition and weight management, exercise, stress, sleep; all those good habits that help reduce your risk of heart disease."

And that's where "Makeover My Heart" comes in - sponsored in part by Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield.

"It's a wonderful event that organized by women, it's for women, and it's to help women become more aware of heart disease, and what they can do to help prevent it."

 The 5th annual "Makeover My Heart" event, held this Saturday, February 2nd from 8 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon held at the Radisson hotel in downtown Utica.

"There are wonderful lectures, and interactive workshops, there's a health and wellness fair that's part of it and breakfast and lunch that are all included for only $25," says Salzer.  "Some of the speakers at this 5th annual "Makeover My Heart" event include doctors, nurse practitioners, registered dieticians, a chef, to help understand what you can do to manage your risk and help you prevent that from happening."