Cardiologist Felice Perrino: “Risk builds up over the years, and it can be reduced at any time”
On the occasion of World Heart Day, celebrated on 29 September, Piccole Figlie Hospital highlighted the importance of cardiovascular prevention, a particularly relevant issue in an area where more than one in five residents of the city of Parma is over 65.
Cardiovascular diseases are among the main public health challenges, and their impact is closely tied to risk factors that are often modifiable, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking and excess weight. Healthier daily habits and regular check-ups can help lower the likelihood of developing heart and cerebrovascular conditions.
“Most of the people we see in our clinic haven’t come in after a sudden event, but after years in which blood pressure, cholesterol, weight and inactivity have been working together, silently,” explains Dr. Felice Perrino, cardiologist at Piccole Figlie Hospital. “Cardiovascular risk builds up over time, and over time it can be reduced. Measuring your blood pressure regularly, checking your cholesterol, moving every day and not ignoring any symptoms are actions that can truly make a difference.”
To turn this message into a concrete opportunity, Piccole Figlie Hospital has launched the campaign “Non tutti hanno lo stesso cuore” (“Not Everyone Has the Same Heart”), running until 31 October, with two cardiology prevention packages at reduced prices: one includes a cardiology consultation and an electrocardiogram, while the other adds an echocardiogram and a carotid ultrasound (supra-aortic trunks Doppler), for a more in-depth assessment of the heart and the blood vessels of the neck.
“Not everyone needs the same check-up,” Perrino stresses. “We designed two different packages to offer an appropriate response to different needs, including for people with risk factors or a family history. The message is simple: prevention is essential and shouldn’t be put off. Acting early means protecting your health and improving your quality of life.”
