In celebration of American Heart Health Month, ShopRite is offering free cholesterol and blood glucose screenings throughout the month of February. Walk-in screenings are available to the public at all ShopRite locations, no fasting needed.
Click here for a complete listing of locations and dates of free screenings.
“While shoppers are crossing grocery items off their lists, they can also conveniently check off an important step in taking charge of their health,” says Natalie Menza-Crowe, MS, RD, director of health and wellness at ShopRite. “Knowing your cholesterol level is critical to understanding your risk for heart disease, while blood glucose levels are a key indicator for developing or having diabetes.”
Controlling cholesterol and blood sugar levels are two of the actions included on the American Heart Association’s “Life’s Simple 7,” which are key measures and behaviors that can help people stay healthy and lower their risk for heart disease, stroke and other major problems. About 40 percent of American adults have total cholesterol of 200 mg/dL or higher, putting them at greater risk for heart disease.
Likewise, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, over 29 million Americans have diabetes, and one in four people with diabetes don’t know they have it. About 86 million Americans ages 20 years or older have prediabetes. In prediabetes, blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes.
“We can check both cholesterol and blood glucose levels with one simple test,” adds Menza-Crowe. “With this knowledge, you can be sure you’re on a healthy path—or you can work with your doctor to make adjustments that get you back on track.”
The screenings are part of ShopRite’s ongoing commitment to providing health and wellness offerings such as flu shots, blood pressure monitoring stations and (in most locations) dedicated in-store registered dietitians who are on-hand to assist customers via personal consultations, store tours, educational services and group classes.
Screenings may vary by state and store. All tests are performed by licensed professionals. Additional restrictions may apply. Contact your local store for details.
