Free blood pressure readings

Wellness Centers of Charles Cole Memorial Hospital in Coudersport, Emporium, Smethport and Port Allegany are offering free blood pressure screening clinics every Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to noon.

"Hypertension (or high blood pressure) was recently identified as the number one diagnosis at Charles Cole Hospital," said Virginia Barlow, M.D., medical director. "Being aware of high blood pressure and taking steps to control it can decrease risk for heart attack and stroke."

Theresa Long, who is coordinating the programs at the Wellness Centers, invites interested persons to stop in during the clinic times. Participants will be provided with a card to record the blood pressure readings as well as information about hypertension and health. Firsttime visitors receive a free pass to the Wellness Center.

"Taking a few minutes each day for self-care today may save your life tomorrow," Dr. Barlow said.

Wellness Centers are located in Coudersport on the hospital campus; in Port Allegany at the Community Health Center on Pine Street; in Smethport on Marvin Street (Rt. 6 W), and at the Emporium Health Center on Sizerville Road.