Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States and a major cause of permanent disability. Life Line Screening, a preventative health company, will be holding a stroke and osteoporosis screening in Santa Maria on Dec. 8 to help seniors reduce their risk of stroke or bone fracture.

The screenings identify potential cardiovascular conditions, such as blocked arteries and irregular heart rhythm, abdominal aortic aneurysms, and hardening of the arteries in the legs, a strong predictor of heart disease. Life Line will also conduct bone density screenings to assess osteoporosis in men and women. Packages start at $139, and all five screenings take 60 to 90 minutes to complete. Pre-registration is required.

Screenings will take place at the Cornerstone Church of the Nazarene, located at 1026 E. Sierra Madre Ave. in Santa Maria.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 1-877-237-1287 or visit lifelinescreening.com.

Biz Briefs is compiled by Staff Writer Jeremy Thomas. Information should be sent to the Sun via fax, e-mail, or mail.

This article appears in Nov 18-25, 2010.