Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin is offering a program to help those with high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol or diabetes.

The Cardiac Rehabilitation Department at the medical center is now offering a “Take H.O.L.D.” (Hypertension/Obesity/HyperLipidemia/Diabetes) a 12-week program geared toward individuals with risk factors or family history of these four common ailments.

Brianna Carlson, cardiopulmonary therapist and facilitator of the Take H.O.L.D. program, said the program is for those who may have a hard time on their own managing some or all of these chronic conditions.

“The program identifies your personal risk factors for developing these chronic conditions,” Carlson said. “I personally will assist you with developing healthier lifestyle choices to help prevent you from getting one or all of these conditions, as well as help you manage them and reduce any complications you may already have due to these conditions.”

Carlson said the program is for those who are ready to do something about their health.

“This 12-week program is for those who may need a little more help in getting started and staying on track,” she said. “Participants who are willing to take the time out of their busy schedules to learn about prevention and wellness for the entire 12 weeks are more likely to continue with their new healthy lifestyle following the 12-week period.”

The Take H.O.L.D. program will be held on Monday evenings beginning Sept. 12 and will go through Nov. 28. The program goes from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Rehabilitation Services Department on the Lower Level of the medical center. Deadline to register is Tuesday, Sept. 6. Cost is $60 and is required at the time of registration. It can be paid in full or in a 3-month increment payment plan of $20 per month.

For more information or for questions, call Carlson at 507-434-1674.

What: Take H.O.L.D. program for people fighting high blood pressure, obesity, high cholestrol or diabetes
Where: Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin, in the Rehabilitation Services Department
When: 6-7 p.m. Monday evenings, starting Sept. 12, going through Nov. 28. Registration is $60 and ends Sept. 6.
Participants in the class will learn about:
•The power of prevention
•Healthy eating strategies and choices
•Physical activity
•Diabetes overview
•Portion sizes
•Navigating around eating out
•Partnering with your health care provider for optimal health
•Getting your family involved
•Celebrating successes

For more info: Call 507-434-1674