Rite Aid launches heart health guide

CAMP HILL, Pa. Rite Aid on Monday partnered with the American Heart Association and its “Go Red for Women” campaign with the introduction of a “get heart smart” 12-page guide on heart health at its pharmacies nationwide and interactively through the retailer’s Web site through March 28.

 The pamphlet, developed in conjunction with the AHA experts, helps explain how to identify risks for heart disease; the numbers behind heart disease, including body mass index, cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar; how to differentiate symptoms of a stroke from a heart attack; and healthy lifestyle tips.

To further bolster the fight against heart disease, Rite Aid again is raising money for American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” campaign, which aims to debunk the myth that heart disease is a “man’s disease” and to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke in women by 25% by 2010.

Rite Aid associates nationwide will sell red dress pin-ups throughout February for donations of $1 or more. In return, customers will receive coupons for heart healthy products and other items. Customers who buy $30 worth of select heart-related products will receive a “Heart and Soul” T-shirt through Rite Aid’s Single Check Rebate program. Special heart-healthy displays also are in stores featuring products such as aspirin and fish oil that may boost heart health.

On Feb. 6, Rite Aid associates across the country will “Go Red for Women” and show their support for the program by wearing red and donating to the American Heart Association.

Rite Aid's focus on heart health is part of its yearlong commitment to patient health and wellness. Each year Rite Aid offers free information, answers and guidance on health and wellness topics including diabetes, allergy awareness, skin care, oral health and weight management.