DEMOPOLIS &045; The number one killer of women is heart disease. In efforts to increase the community’s awareness of the dangers of heart disease and the effects it can have on a woman’s body, Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital is hosting a Lunch and Learn luncheon at noon on Thursday to inform women of the importance of taking charge of their health to combat this disease.

The program comes as part of the facility’s observance of American Heart Month.

During the luncheon, Betsy Adams, Wellness Center Director, will give pointers on how to put the fun back into exercising.

In observance of American Heart Month, Brooker said the hospital also held a fund-raiser for the American Heart Association. Hospital employees sold red t-shirts as part of the &8216;Go Red’ campaign.

Brooker said she has had about 30 people register for the luncheon so far.

There’s no charge for participation in the program, which will be held from noon to 1 p.m. on Thursday in the hospital’s classroom. A buffet luncheon will be served beginning at noon for $5 per plate. Because space is limited, reservations are required and can be made by contacting Brooker at 287-2626.

Lunch and Learn is an every-other-month program that is comprised of a series of one-hour luncheon meetings during which participants will hear experts discussing various health issues that relate directly to women.

&8220;This is something we have been doing for a long time,&8221; Brooker said. &8220;It used to be called &8216;Time Out.’ We have had different speakers on various subjects.&8221;

Brooker said the programs are held to increase health awareness and be used as an educational tool for the community.