King Edward VII Memorial Hospital outpatient services will offer free health screenings to the public on Wednesday.The initiative is part of the KEMH’s Healthy Heart Month.It allows people to get tested for blood pressure, blood sugar, weight circumference and body mass index by specialised nurses from the Cardiac Care Programme, Diabetes Centre and Dialysis Unit.The services will be available in the hospital lobby between 11am and 2pm. Another session of free screenings will take place on February 23.A hospital spokeswoman said research has shown that by controlling risk factors including smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, weight and physical activity, the chances of developing heart disease can be greatly reduced.“Heart disease is the number one cause of death for both men and women around the world and affects half of all Bermudians,” said Norma Smith, director of Outpatient Services for Bermuda Hospitals Board.“While lifestyle changes are the best way to combat and prevent heart disease, people need to understand their own risk for the disease. It could be the difference between life and death.”People recovering from heart disease can attend the hospital’s regular Cardiac Education Classes. The classes teach how to properly exercise and diet for a healthy heart.Anyone interested in attending should call 239-1219.Useful website: http://bermudahospitals.com.