Heart study session planned

Monday, July 29, 2002

A study to investigate the possible link between family history and premature heart disease is being expanded to McCook.

The study, by Dr. Michael Briener of Lincoln, seeks participants who are 59 years old or younger, with or without heart disease or symptoms of heart disease, who have close relatives with heart disease or who have died from coronary disease.

Those who fall into that category are asked to register by calling Community Hospital at (308) 345-8255.

An informational session is set for 9 a.m. Saturday in the meeting rooms at Community Hospital.

Briener, a retired cardiothoracic surgeon from Lincoln, said early identification, treatment and modifications in lifestyle can counteract a family history of premature heart disease or death caused by heart disease.

Lowering cholesterol, stabilizing "vulnerable plaque," stopping smoking and starting on aspirin, exercise and diet regimens can reduce the chances of such plaque eroding or erupting, causing sudden death.

Families selected to participate will be asked to complete family medical history questionnaires, and blood samples will be drawn.

There will be no cost to participants, and Breiner guarantees that all information will be private and confidential.

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