A MAJOR initiative has been launched to prevent heart disease, a dominant killer in Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale.

More than 350 health care professionals, including 80 GPs, attended a conference at Turf Moor this week to exchange information and knowledge .

It was part of a bid by health chiefs to cut down the impact of the disease on local people.

Traditionally, East Lancashire has had a high rate of coronary heart disease which is often associated with poverty, poor diet and lifestyle choices.

But Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale Primary Care Trust is working to change people's attitudes and approach to issues such as diet and exercise

The Trust organised the coronary heart disease information event at Turf Moor, to coincide with the launch of a special heart disease resource pack designed for GP practices and health professionals throughout the area.

The pack, produced by the East Lancashire CHD Prevention Working Group, contains information for practice nurses and GPs on range of health issues for patients who have previously suffered a heart attack.

Jim Heyes, chairman of the PCT, said: "The aims are predominantly to share best practice and improve communication between health professionals.

"It should benefit all local residents and service users. "

The forum included 25 stalls that covered a wide range of topics in respect of chronic disease management, followed by a Question Time session.