February is American Heart Month. Newtown Community Center, in collaboration with Newtown Health District, is offering free blood pressure screenings throughout the month. There will be three screenings offered in the community center lobby, 8 Simpson Street.

The first is scheduled for Thursday, February 5, 9:30-11:30 am. For those who cannot make the morning slot, another screening will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 4-6 pm. The last free screening of the month will be Monday, February 23, 9:30-11:30 am.

No appointments are needed. This is a drop-in event for all ages. For more information, call Newtown Health District at 203-270-4291.

High blood pressure can lead to serious health problems. According to American Heart Association, high blood pressure can lead to a heart attack or stroke, heart failure, heart disease, kidney disease or failure, vision loss, sexual dysfunction, or atherosclerosis, or plaque buildup in the arteries.

In most cases damage happens over time. Options to reduce risk and manage blood pressure include making heart-healthy lifestyle changes, taking any medication as prescribed, and working with health care professionals.