ASHLAND, Ky. — The Heart Failure Support Group of King’s Daughters Medical Center will meet from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 30, in the first floor conference room at King’s Daughters Office Park, 835 Central Ave., Ashland.

The meetings are free and open to the public.

KDMC dietitian Amy McFann will present tips on creating flavorful, satisfying meals while on a low-sodium diet.

“Following a diet that’s low in sodium is an important part of managing the symptoms of heart failure,” said Amanda Johnson, R.N., group facilitator. “Attendees will learn numerous ways they can perk up their meals while following sodium restrictions,” Johnson said.

The Heart Failure Support Group is free and open to anyone with heart failure, caregivers and interested persons, Johnson said.

Physician referral is not required, although RSVPs are requested and may be made by calling (606) 408-6002 or (606) 408-6462.

Heart failure is a serious condition affecting more than 5 million Americans.

While there is no known cure for the disease, the condition can be managed through medication, lifestyle change, education and support.

“Our goal is to help people who have been diagnosed with heart failure — and their families — reduce symptoms and hospitalizations and ultimately, to live better lives,” Johnson said.

Heart failure affects more than 5 million Americans and about 550,000 new cases of the disease are diagnosed each year, according to the US Centers for Disease Control.

Additional meetings and scheduled topics for 2010 include:

April 27: Heart Failure Medications: Questions & Answers

May 25: Self-Care: Following your treatment plan & dealing with symptoms

June 22: Exercise and Activity

July 20: Heart Failure: Keeping a Positive Outlook

Aug. 17: Family/ Friend Support

Sept. 14: Lifestyle: Managing Other Chronic Conditions

Oct. 12: Advanced Care Planning