Heart & Stroke Introduces Innovative Online Tool for Risk Assessment

Heart & Stroke has launched a new online screening tool, called Risk Screen, aimed at helping Canadians assess their personal risk factors for heart disease and stroke. This free resource is designed to support individuals in understanding their unique health profiles and taking actionable steps to manage their risks.

Personalized Health Insights

According to Dr. Christine Faubert, Vice President of Health Equity and Mission Impact at Heart & Stroke, the initiative provides tailored guidance for users. “It supports and gives tips to people they can take to reduce and manage their risks. It’s a really personalized approach to understand one’s own unique risk,” Faubert explained during an interview with CTV Your Morning Atlantic on March 14, 2024.

The screening tool not only evaluates common risk factors, such as diet and smoking, but also addresses issues specific to women. Faubert emphasized the importance of recognizing distinct risks associated with various life stages, including pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause. “Some of the risks are the same as men and sometimes they will impact women differently,” she stated.

Empowering Users with Knowledge

Upon completing the online assessment, users receive a detailed profile that outlines their specific risk factors along with personalized recommendations for improvement. “A lot of the risks can be prevented through lifestyle changes. It’s crucial to eat healthy and stay active as much as possible,” Faubert noted.

The tool also serves as a valuable resource for facilitating discussions with healthcare providers or family members about integrating healthier habits into daily life. By providing clear recommendations and actionable tips, Risk Screen aims to empower Canadians to take control of their heart health.

Faubert added that while some risk factors can be modified, others remain beyond control. “It’s important for people to know both the preventable and non-preventable risks that affect them,” she said.

As heart disease and stroke remain leading health concerns in Canada, initiatives like Risk Screen play a vital role in enhancing public awareness and encouraging proactive health management. For more information about the tool and to access the screening, Canadians can visit the Heart & Stroke website.