As part of the CardioStart surgical mission, several volunteers coordinated a community health screening for diabetes and high blood pressure. Of the 278 people screened, five individuals were diagnosed with diabetes and 17 with severe hypertension. Patients were referred to the local doctor, who was present at the screening venue. One individual was diagnosed with such severe hypertension that the local doctor purchased the medication himself for the patient and referred him to Cardiology the next day.

 Seriousness of Rheumatic Fever and Strep Throat

Volunteer Marty Diamond taking BP Undiagnosed and untreated Rheumatic Fever and Strep Throat can lead to serious cardiovascular illness. Many of the cardiac surgeries that CardioStart performs are a result of a patient previously having had one of these illnesses, which went untreated. In an attempt to head-off many cardiovascular illnesses, the Outreach Team conducted a prevention initiative in Arequipa by distributing information in Spanish on recognizing the signs and symptoms of Strep Throat and Rheumatic Fever and the importance of seeking medical help. During the health screening, the team distributed information on the signs and symptoms of heart disease and stroke.

Diabetes and High Blood Pressure can Lead to Heart Disease

Volunteer Marty Diamond, who joined the CardioStart Outreach Team for the first time said, “I have been involved in many humanitarian and charitable causes over the years, but have never been part of an experience like this. Our first day we set up tables outside of the government building to do blood pressure and blood sugar screening. Some of the people had never been tested before. It was incredible to know that due to this health screening, many people may avoid serious health problems because they were told their pressure or sugar was high and they should see a healthcare provider for treatment.

“We also were at a daycare center for four days. The children are from extremely poor families. We did medical check-ups for the children and family members. The medical advice and care they received was priceless. Health screening kids at daycare

“I was concerned that not being in the medical field, I would not be able to add value (to the mission). This is not the case. This has been one of the most exciting and rewarding experience of my life. I am proud to be part of CardioStart.”

CardioStart will continue to coordinate community health screenings as part of their surgical missions on future missions.