News Release                   For Immediate Release

September 5, 2003

Grey and Bruce Counties – A “Hot Spot” All Year Long

Grey Bruce Partners in Health is pleased to announce that Dr. Heather Arthur, a researcher with the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario’ will speak about “New Directions in Heart Disease” at the Meaford - St. Vincent Community Centre in Meaford on Tuesday September 23, from 7 – 9 pm.  She will talk about issues such as women and heart disease, heart failure and obesity.  Information about how to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke will be available.

The rates for heart disease and stroke have been declining in Ontario and throughout most parts of Canada.  In Grey and Bruce Counties, however, these decreases have been smaller, making this area a “hot spot” for these diseases.  Grey and Bruce hospital admissions due to stroke are 51% higher than the Ontario average.  Hospitalization due to heart disease is 20% higher in Grey County, while in Bruce County it is 14% higher, compared to the provincial average.

Grey Bruce Partners in Health is a coalition of organizations working together to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and other chronic diseases.  It includes the local offices of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, Public Health, Grey Bruce Health Services and allied groups.

Dr. Arthur is a Professor at the School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, at McMaster University in Hamilton.  She is the chair of Cardiovascular Research at the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario and Vice President of the Canadian Association of Cardiac Rehabilitation.  Dr. Arthur is an engaging and dynamic speaker and has a special interest in cardiac rehabilitation for women.  Plan to attend this free community forum in Meaford on September 23.  For further information call Pubic Health at 519-797-2010 or 1-800 230-7719.             

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For more information:

Liz Owen

Public Health Nurse, Chronic Disease Prevention

Public Health

797-2010 or 1-800-230-7719