PARAMUS, NJ - On Sunday afternoon, October 15, 2000, the Armenian Presbyterian Church Women's Guild, together with the Armenian-American Health Professionals Organization (AAHPO), hosted a lecture in the sanctuary. Guest speakers were Dr. Haroutune Mekhjian and Dr. Ohan Karatoprak.

Mrs. Seta Nalbandian, President of the Guild, gave the welcoming address and thanked those who have supported this "Health Awareness Program," many being friends of the speakers.

Rev. Ara Heghinian opened the program with a prayer.

Dr. Mekhjian's topic was Prevention and Treatment of Heart Diseases. With a screen and pictures, he stated that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and heart bypass surgery costs more health-care dollars than any other single procedure. During surgery an artery or vein taken from another part of the body is used to divert blood around a clogged portion of the arteries supplying the heart.

Dr. Mekhjian stated that diet, and the foods we eat, are essential to good health. One must try to avoid stress. He graciously acknowledged the questions asked followed his very interesting talk.

Dr. Karatoprak also spoke on the importance of good health habits. He too answered the many questions asked.

Following this segment of the program, a group discussion took place with Moderator, Dr. Garbis Dabaghian. Drs. Mekhjian and Karatoprak, with participating panelists Dr. Knarig Khachatourian (nutrition questions) and, in the absence of Movses Hovsepian, Pharm.D. (drug and food interaction questions) Khoren Nalbandian, Pharm. D. participated.

The response was so great that the attendees were anxious to know when a similar program on health-related issues would take place.