For Immediate Release:
September 8, 2009

Space remains for Free Vascular Screenings at Charlton and Tobey

Regular vascular screenings can detect PVD, a potentially serious circulatory problem

FALL RIVER, Mass. — Southcoast Hospitals Group is sponsoring a series of free vascular screenings this fall. Appointments are required and on a first-come, first-served basis by calling 800-497-1727. No walk-ins will be accepted on screening days.

FALL RIVER

Screenings will be held at Charlton Memorial Hospital, 363 Highland Ave. in Fall River on the Southcoast Health Van from 5 to 7 p.m. The van will be located outside the hospital's main entrance.

• Wednesday, Sept. 9
• Wednesday, Sept. 30
• Wednesday, Oct. 7
• Monday, Oct. 19
• Wednesday, Oct. 28
• Wednesday, Nov. 4

WAREHAM

Screenings will be held at Tobey Hospital, 43 High St. in Wareham from 5 to 7 p.m.

• Monday, Sept. 14
• Wednesday, Oct. 14
• Thursday, Nov. 5

The screenings are basic vascular screenings that can help detect a condition called peripheral vascular disease (PVD). The non-invasive screenings are performed by a trained nurse and take approximately 20 minutes. Patients should arrive 15 minutes prior to screening time.

What is PVD?

According to the American Heart Association, PVD occurs mainly in the vessels that carry blood to the leg and arm muscles. If left untreated, PVD can result in peripheral artery disease (PAD) a condition that puts people at higher risk of death from stroke and heart attack due to the risk of blood clots.

"Because the symptoms of PVD usually disappear after rest, many sufferers do not seek help because they believe their pain is a normal part of growing older," said Gail Perzentz, RN, who conducts the screenings at St. Luke's Hospital. "Regular vascular screenings can detect PVD, a potentially serious circulatory problem characterized by an ache, pain or cramping in the legs, calves or buttocks while walking or exercising."

For more information on PVD, www.americanheart.org.