THURSDAY, 21 MARCH 2024: HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund, is partnering with The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute to offer complimentary heart health checks to HCF members 18 years and older, with hospital and extras cover.

"Heart disease is a significant health concern, with around 57,000 Australians experiencing a heart attack each year,"¹ said Linda Opie, HCF's Head of Health & Wellbeing.

"However, by taking proactive measures like understanding individual risk factors and monitoring heart health, many cases can potentially be prevented."

The heart health check process is quick and convenient, taking less than 10 minutes to complete. The checks are conducted by Heart Health Check Specialists from the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute and assess key risk factors for heart disease, including blood sugar, total cholesterol, and blood pressure.

Participants also receive a heart health snapshot with follow-up recommendations for maintaining a healthy heart lifestyle.

Individuals identified with risk factors are seamlessly referred into other free HCF Health & Wellbeing programs to assist with weight loss, cardiovascular disease and diabetes management, and mental health support.

“Prevention, detection and effective treatment are our best weapons against heart disease and stroke,” said Professor Jason Kovacic, a cardiologist and the Director and CEO of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute.

“By quitting smoking, eating a nutritious diet, and doing the right kind of exercise, improving your heart health can be relatively simple for most people,” Professor Kovacic said.

When necessary, participants are encouraged to follow up with their GP regarding their results. That was the case for Patricia Wade, who was surprised to learn she had high cholesterol at her heart health check in Brookvale.

“I have a history of high cholesterol in my family, but I never thought it would be an issue for me.

“I’m young, rarely drink alcohol and I’m quite active, so I’m a bit shocked,” Patricia said.

One in twelve (8.4%) Australian adults had self-reported high cholesterol in 2022,² which generally doesn’t have obvious symptoms but can increase the risk of serious health conditions if left untreated.³

Among HCF members in Maroochydore who recently participated in the initiative, nearly all (96%) reported they did not know their total cholesterol level prior to having their heart health checked, with even more (98%) unaware of their blood sugar levels.

Nearly eight in ten (77%) members who were tested had results outside the healthy range and were advised to contact their GP.

"Heart health checks empower people with immediate insights into their heart health status, enabling them to make informed decisions and take proactive steps towards a healthier future," Linda said.

Free heart health checks are currently being offered at select HCF Eyecare Centres, Dental Centres and branches across New South Wales, and will begin rolling out in the Australian Capital Territory, Western Australia, Victoria, and South Australia over the coming months.

Due to limited availability, appointments must be scheduled in advance. HCF members can find out more by visiting www.hcf.com.au/victorchang.

ENDS

Media enquiries to:

Joni Thomes 0475 576 738 or jthomes@hcf.com.au

ABOUT HCF

HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund protecting Australians since 1932, covers almost 2 million members with health and life insurance, and travel and pet insurance. HCF has been awarded Outstanding Value Health Insurance by Canstar eight years in a row from 2016-2023. On average over the last ten years, HCF has paid out more cents in every dollar in premiums to members as benefits than the industry average. To learn more about HCF go to hcf.com.au/about-us

REFERENCES

<sup>1. Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute. (n.d.). Repairing hearts with deadly spider venom. Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute. https://www.victorchang.edu.au/news/repairing-hearts-with-deadly-spider-venom
2. Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2022). High cholesterol. ABS. https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/high-cholesterol/latest-release.
3.The Heart Foundation. (n.d.). High blood cholesterol. Retrieved from https://production.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/high-blood-cholesterol</sup>