Free clinics aim to fight heart disease

A new scheme aimed at reducing cardiovascular disease is being launched in Guernsey this April.

ABCD, a free prevention, detection and early-intervention programme, will tackle atrial fibrillation, blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes.

Guernsey Chest and Heart and Public Health are working in partnership to implement the project after reports showed circulatory diseases accounted for 26% of deaths locally, the second most common cause of death on island.

The initiative is for those aged 25 to 70 and no appointment or referral is required to be screened at a drop-in clinic.

Director of Public Health Dr Nicola Brink said: "It's all about identifying those risk factors, with circulatory and cardiovascular disease being so prevalent as a cause of mortality."

People taking part in the clinic screenings "might be given lifestyle advice, they might be referred to some of our other services, for example, stop smoking services", she added.

Once risk factors for each patient are identified, they will be directed to the most appropriate next step.

The wide age range for islanders is aimed at catching cardiovascular issues "before they cause problems", the scheme's organisers said.

Caroline Ogier, manager of Guernsey Chest and Heart Centre, said: "When you are young, we do want you to come and get checked.

"Many people come and see us when they hit a milestone birthday, such as 40 or 50, rather than try to identify problems before they start."

Ogier said genetics, stress and the use of cigarettes and alcohol could all factor into cardiovascular risks.

February was National Heart Month, with Guernsey Chest and Heart calling for people to get a free cardiac health check.