CLEARLAKE, Calif. – Adventist Health Clear Lake will begin offering free cardiovascular disease screenings in Clearlake beginning July 27.

The program, called Dare to C.A.R.E., screens for common vascular diseases, such as clogged arteries, that are often symptomless precursors to serious heart complications or stroke.

Statistics show that more than 795,000 Americans will have a stroke each year caused by heart or vascular disease. Up to 80 percent of strokes are preventable.

Through the Dare to C.A.R.E. screenings, individuals are screened for four common diseases:

– Carotid artery disease, which is responsible for at least 300,000 strokes a year.
– Abdominal aortic aneurysms, the third leading cause of sudden death in men over 60.
– Renal artery stenosis, a disease affecting more than five million Americans.
– Extremity artery disease, which affects more than 10 million Americans.

Any individual age 60-plus, or an individual age 50 or over who has certain risk factors, such as smoking, diabetes or a family history, is eligible for this free screening. The program also accepts individuals with diabetes over the age of 40.

Following the painless, 15-minute screening, results will be shared with the patient and sent back to the patient’s primary care provider. If the ultrasound shows disease, the provider and patient can meet to discuss a treatment options.

“As we are all too aware, cardiovascular disease is one of the most pervasive problems facing our patients today,” says John Laird, MD, medical director for the Adventist Heart & Vascular Institute. “Early intervention, prevention and education are key to improving the heart and vascular health of our local community.”

Screenings will be offered at the Adventist Health Clear Lake Medical Office in Clearlake on two Fridays each month from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Appointments for the free, no-obligation screenings can be scheduled by calling 888-529-9018. Learn more by visiting www.adventistheart.org/dare-to-care.