September is National Cholesterol Health Awareness Month

September is National Cholesterol Health Awareness Month.  Why is it so important to be aware of cholesterol? The month is designed to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease, cholesterol, and stroke. Unmanaged cholesterol can be indicators of heart disease and the potential for stroke and heart attack.

Have you heard of the saying, “Do you know your numbers?”  They are: blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar level and body mass index? These four measurements are crucial indicators of your overall health, especially related to risk for heart attack and stroke.

People have two sources of cholesterol: their body and their food. The liver and other cells in the body make about 75 percent of blood cholesterol. The other 25 percent comes from the foods people choose to eat. LDL cholesterol is produced naturally by the body. Some people inherit genes from their mother, father or even grandparents that cause them to make too much.

If high blood cholesterol runs in your family, simple changes may not be enough to help lower your LDL or total blood cholesterol. Everyone is different, so work with your physician or health care provider to find a treatment plan that’s best for you.

Do you have a primary care provider who is working with you on your numbers?  If you do not have health insurance and need help, Prince George’s County Health Connect, a program of the Department of Social Services (DSS), can help you.

Certified navigators can schedule an appointment and enroll individuals and families over the telephone. Dial the Prince George’s Health Connect Call Center on, (301) 927-4500 or (240) 719-2167, Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 4 pm. Navigators are bilingual.