In the middle of National Heart Health Month, a unique initiative took place aiming to improve the well-being of farmers. Cardiovascular disease is a health condition affecting the heart and blood vessels. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 3 deaths that happen in the U.S. every year is due to cardiovascular disease—that's one cardiovascular-related death every 34 seconds. Recent research suggests that farmers, especially adult male farmers, have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease compared to non-farmers of a similar age.  

Dubbed "Farmer Heart 2 Heart Event," Lindsay Arthur, Bourbon County Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, Kay Denniston, Bourbon County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, and Kacy Wiley, Bourbon County Senior Nutrition Education Program Assistant worked together to create a comprehensive health event tailored specifically for farmers, recognizing the importance of prioritizing their cardiovascular health.  Adding depth to the initiative, nursing students from the local high school eagerly stepped in to conduct health screenings under the watchful eye of a certified healthcare provider.

On the day of the event, 27 farmers took advantage of the opportunity, recognizing the significance of monitoring their health amidst their demanding lifestyles. The screenings, encompassing crucial metrics such as blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration rate, vital insights into their cardiovascular well-being. Upon completing the screenings, each farmer received a personalized wallet card containing their recorded health information, serving as a tangible reminder to prioritize their heart health in their daily lives. But the support didn't end there. The farmers were also furnished with publications from the University of Kentucky addressing topics ranging from blood pressure management to fostering healthy lifestyles, equipping them with the knowledge to make informed choices about their health. To add a delicious twist to the event, Kacy Wiley prepared her signature SNAP-ED Sunrise Granola recipe, offering farmers a taste of nutritious yet delectable fare that aligned with their health goals. This culinary treat not only tantalized taste buds but also served as a testament to the notion that healthy eating can be both enjoyable and accessible. Those in attendance were also able to take home copies of recipes, including the 2024 Food and Nutrition Calendar.