ENGLEWOOD, Calif. (KABC) — In honor of Black History Month and American Heart Month, the LA Rams and Edwards Lifesciences hosted a heart screening for the community.

“Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, not cancer, and heart disease disproportionately impacts the African American community, so in addition to providing testing, we We are here to provide education and awareness about valvular heart disease,” said Dr. Cedric Cravens, director of patient engagement and health care access equity at Edwards Lifesciences.

The screening was completely free at Faithful Central Bible Church in Inglewood, the home church of Rams legend Joe’s Sweet.

“One of the reasons this is so important, especially during Black History Month, is that we can’t do it alone. As the old adage goes, you go faster if you go it alone. But if you go on your own, you can go further.With a group, you can go further,” said George B. Thompson, pastor of Faithful Central Bible Church.

The event included two heart health information sessions and tests including blood pressure, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram.

Participants learned about the signs and symptoms of heart disease.

“There are many things you can do to lower your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, including getting at least 150 minutes of exercise per week, keeping your blood pressure under control, and controlling your diabetes,” said Dr. Tiffany Randolph. . , a non-invasive cardiologist.

“I personally have health care, but I also know very well that in certain communities it’s not available. In certain communities, there’s poverty, people are actually less educated, People don’t realize how important it is to get this type of testing, so it’s important to have that information and get that health checkup.” Teams like the Rams are coming to our communities. , say, “This is important. We want to pour into your community. We don’t just play in your community, we also want to pour into your community.” That’s important to me. ” church member Nannette Griggs said.