January 1, 2015

To the Editor
Williamsport Sun-Gazette
252 West 4th Street
Williamsport, Pennsylvania 17701

Dear Editor:
I am writing in response to the fact that American Hearth Month is quickly approching in
February.
Recent surveys, such as the Clevland Clinic survey, show that heart disease is responsible for one
in four deaths in the United States. Studies have also revealed that most Americans admit they
are confused about what it means to have a hearth-healthy diet.
According to Susquehannahealth.org, over fifty-two percent of Americans tried to improve their
heart heath through diet, yet only a mere five percent of that group were actaully successful in
meeting their goal. Unbeknownst to many, stroke, gum disease, and diabetes all correlate to heart
health. Most people also do not recognize that there are five key heart attack risk factors. These
include family history, hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, and tobacco use.
At Susquehannah Health we make it our mission to educate our patients and the community on
heart health awareness. We provide prevention and detection of heart related diseases. In 2014,
our Heart and Vascualar Institute became affliliated with Cleveland Clinics nationally
recognized program.

Our official website, www.Susquehannahhealth.org, provides the community with interactive

quizzes that will help to determine your personal heart health. Heart health assesssments,
prevention tips, and risk management are included on our website.
If you wish to consult with a physician or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact
one of our three regional facilities: Williamsport Regional Medical Center (570-321-2273),
Divine Providence Hospital (570-326-8298), and Muncy Valley Hospital (570-327-8137).
We hope that you will take advantage of the programs and activites that Susquehannah Health
has to offer this February, and encourage all to make this year heart healthy

Sincerely,

Susan Browning
Director of Medical Staff Sevices
Susquehannah Health
(570) 321-2239
sbrowning@susquehannahhealth.org