Sydney, 13 September 2016 –  HCF, leading not-for-profit health fund protecting Australians since 1932, is once again working with Victor Chang to offer free heart health checks for members at HCF North Sydney.

The Victor Chang Health Check Booth will be operating from 19-21 September, and includes three quick health tests – blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose – to help members understand and track the risk factors that could affect their heart health.

HCF’s 2015 North Sydney program showed an increase in members tested presenting with high cholesterol (15% rise) compared to 2012. Over half of members tested didn’t know their blood pressure or cholesterol levels, and 70% were unaware of their blood sugar. Health management and further assessment by a GP was recommended to 36% of those tested, showing a real need for local members to put their health first.

HCF North Sydney branch manager, Dirga Adnan, is urging local members to take advantage of the simple Heart Health Checks, which will assist with detection of treatable and preventable health conditions.

“Our purpose goes beyond providing the local community with just health insurance services. We have over 20 years of experience and work closely with our members to empower them to make positive lifestyle choices and proactively manage their health – at any life stage,” Dirga said.

Last year’s results reveal that residents need to remain diligent in assessing and taking care of their heart health and the upcoming visit of the Health Check Booth is the ideal opportunity for members to achieve this. 

The free Heart Health Checks are available for members with extras cover thanks to HCF’s ongoing partnership with the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, a not-for-profit charity dedicated to fighting cardiovascular disease through research.

North Sydney residents can also make use of the many digital tools and free online resources from HCF to help them reach their health and fitness goals. HCF’s suite of healthy apps includes a Get Fitter app, offering advice and tailored exercise plans, a Be Happier app, including tools to improve mental and emotional wellbeing, and a Quit Smoking app to help smokers stay focused on their smoke-free goals.

Tips for a healthy heart

According to the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, there are some simple ways that North Sydney residents can maintain a healthy heart:

• Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and choose lean meats and poultry.
• Cut down on salt.
• Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every day.
• Curb your alcohol intake. No more than one or two standard alcoholic drinks per day is recommended. 
• Quit smoking.
• Know your risk factors for heart disease.