Recent advances in cardiac care and the unique health risks facing first responders were the focus of a special program held for Sullivan County firefighters at the Richard A. Martinkovic Public Safety Training Center in Liberty.
The event, titled Heart Under Fire: Advances in Cardiac Care for Sullivan County First Responders, brought together firefighters from across the county to learn about cardiovascular health from Dr. Michael Argenziano, associate chief of the Division of Cardiac, Thoracic, and Vascular Surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia University Irving Medical Center.
Presented through a collaboration among Sullivan 180, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and the Sullivan County Bureau of Fire, the program highlighted advances in cardiac surgery and interventional cardiology, as well as the cardiovascular conditions most commonly affecting firefighters and other first responders.
Argenziano discussed how heart disease is diagnosed and evaluated and explained how new technologies are improving patient outcomes, reducing recovery times and expanding treatment options for people with complex cardiovascular disease.
The presentation also addressed occupational risks that can contribute to heart disease among first responders, including physical exertion, heat exposure, smoke inhalation and sleep disruption. Argenziano emphasized prevention strategies such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, good nutrition and monitoring key health indicators.
“[The Healthiest Fire Department Challenge] has had real and consequential benefits for our firefighters and first-responders around Sullivan County,” Sullivan County Fire Coordinator John Hauschild said. “These jobs, whether volunteer or paid, put a lot of stress on the human body, and we need to take care of ourselves and each other. I’m grateful and glad we’re focusing on this important aspect of emergency response.”
Nicole Blais, outreach coordinator for Sullivan 180, said the program aligns with the organization’s mission to improve community health.
“At Sullivan 180, our mission is to build a healthy community one degree at a time. Everyone has a role to play, including those who dedicate themselves to protecting our communities,” Blais said. “Heart health is one of the most important health and wellness issues facing the fire service today, and this program was an opportunity to bring valuable information and resources directly to the people who serve others every day.”
As part of the program, participants completed an activity identifying heart-healthy habits they regularly practice. Options included walking, limiting caffeine, getting quality sleep, laughing with friends, taking the stairs, stretching or exercising, eating fruits and vegetables and staying hydrated.
The event is part of Sullivan 180’s ongoing Healthiest Fire Department Challenge, which encourages firefighters and emergency responders to adopt healthier lifestyles and improve long-term health outcomes.
Sullivan 180 is a financial supporter of Radio Catskill.
Image: Participants in the “Heart Under Fire” event in Liberty. (Sullivan 180)