By Eileen Buckley
Buffalo, NY – As today marks Valentine's Day, it is a perfect time to think about the health of your heart. It is Heart Success Week in the Buffalo area.
There is a big reason why local health organizations are so concerned about promoting a healthy heart.
Kaleida Health leaders say Western New York has the highest rates of heart disease and stroke in the state. It is also one of the highest rates in the nation.
Kaleida CEO James Kaskie says Kaleida treats 75 to 80% of heart conditions in the area and has worked to make heart care a top priority within its system.
Dr. William Boden is the medical director of cardiovascular services for Kaleida and also serves as chief of cardiology at Buffalo General and Millard Fillmore Gates. Boden says there are simply too many patients who have heart disease, some caused by years of bad lifestyle habits.
Click the "listen" icon above to hear Eileen Buckley's story now or use your podcasting software to download it to your computer or iPod.