Residents living in the Southern Pines and Carthage areas can be screened to reduce their risk of having a stroke.

Life Line Screening will be at the Penick Village on Thursday. It is at 100 E. Rhode Island Ave. Extension in Southern Pines.

Life Line will be at the Sandhills Baptist Association on May 1. The association office is at 5254 U.S. 15-501 in Carthage.

Appointments will begin at 9 a.m. at both locations.

A stroke, also known as a "brain attack," is ranked as the third leading killer in the world.

The complete screening package now includes a new heart rhythm screening, checking for irregular heartbeat, which is a major risk factor for stroke.

Screenings are fast, painless and affordable, according to a news release. They help identify potential health problems, such as blocked arteries and irregular heart rhythm, abdominal aortic aneurysms, and hardening of the arteries in the legs, which is a strong predictor of heart disease.

A bone density screening to assess osteoporosis risk is also offered and is appropriate for both men and women.

All five screenings take 60 to 90 minutes to complete.

Life Line Screening was established in 1993, and has since become the nation's leading provider of preventive screenings.

Anyone needing more information regarding the screenings or to schedule an appointment can call toll-free (800) 697-9721. Advanced registration is required.