Are you proactive about your health and keen on early detection of potential issues? The Dare to C.A.R.E. program offers a vital opportunity to understand your heart and vascular health through education and screening. This free initiative, a collaboration between Dominican Hospital and the Dominican Hospital Foundation, is designed to identify vascular diseases early when treatment can significantly prevent severe health outcomes.
Understanding the Importance of Early Vascular Disease Detection with Dare to C.A.R.E.
Vascular disease, if left undetected, can escalate into serious and life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, amputations, and even death. The Dare to C.A.R.E. program is strategically designed to focus on identifying abnormalities that are precursors to critical conditions, including:
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA): Often symptomless, AAAs are a leading cause of sudden death in men over 60. Some individuals may experience a pulsing sensation in the abdomen, lower back pain, chest tenderness, nausea, or a persistent feeling of fullness. Early screening is crucial as symptoms are often subtle or absent until a critical stage.
- Carotid Artery Disease: This condition is a major contributor to strokes, accounting for approximately 300,000 strokes annually. Symptoms typically manifest suddenly and can include weakness or numbness in the face or limbs, speech or comprehension difficulties, vision problems, dizziness, balance issues, and headaches. Recognizing these symptoms promptly can be life-saving.
- Extremity Artery Disease (PAD): Affecting over 10 million Americans, PAD symptoms can range from leg pain or fatigue during activity, buttock discomfort, burning or tingling in the feet, to more severe signs like sores or skin breaks on legs and feet, hair loss on extremities, skin color changes, decreased skin temperature, and even impotence. Early diagnosis through programs like Dare to C.A.R.E. can help manage and mitigate these symptoms effectively.
- Renal Artery Stenosis: Impacting more than 5 million Americans, this condition may present with warning signs such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, sudden kidney malfunction, congestive heart failure, and pulmonary edema. Screening for renal artery stenosis is vital for individuals at risk to prevent kidney damage and related complications.
The risk of vascular disease increases with age as plaque accumulates over time. You are eligible for the Dare to C.A.R.E. screening program if you meet the following criteria:
- Are over 60 years of age.
- Are over 50 with vascular disease risk factors including smoking, diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, family history of heart disease, sedentary lifestyle, and obesity.
- Are over 40 with diabetes.
What Happens During Your Dare to C.A.R.E. Screening Appointment?
The Dare to C.A.R.E. screening is designed for your convenience and comfort. A vascular technologist will perform a quick, 15-minute, painless, and non-invasive ultrasound of your neck, abdomen, and legs. This ultrasound is crucial for identifying potential vascular issues without any discomfort or downtime.
Following your screening, you will receive your results, and they will also be communicated to your primary care physician. Should the ultrasound detect any signs of vascular disease, you and your doctor can collaboratively develop a tailored treatment plan to best address your health needs.
Stay Informed About the Dare to C.A.R.E. Program
Please note: The Dare to C.A.R.E. clinic is temporarily closed due to COVID-19. However, your vascular health remains a priority. If you believe you are at high risk for vascular disease due to factors such as smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, family history of heart conditions, lack of exercise, or obesity, it is strongly recommended to discuss screening options with your primary care provider.
The Dare to C.A.R.E. clinic is located at 3150 Mission Drive, first floor, Santa Cruz, CA 95065. Appointments are typically required. The program’s valuable equipment is generously funded by the Dominican Hospital Foundation, underscoring their commitment to community health.
Protect your heart and vascular health by staying informed and proactive. While the Dare to C.A.R.E. program is temporarily paused, understanding your risk and consulting with your healthcare provider remains the best course of action.
