February is the month for Valentines, lovers, chocolates and red roses. It is also American Heart Association Month, a month that is special to the American Heart Association.(AHA) This organization has taken on the mission of:
"Building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and strokes."
Their mission was updated (as it is done every three years) by the AHA during their annual meeting in April, 2007. The impact goal is, to reduce coronary heart disease, stroke and risk by 25 percent by 2010.

According to a report in January 2008 from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) new mortality data shows that since 1999, coronary artery disease and stroke age- adjusted death rates are down by 25 percent, respectively. This means that the AHA's 2010 strategic goal for reducing deaths from coronary disease has been achieved.

However, AHA's president, Dr. Dan Jones, said, "the victory could be short-lived if the
risk factors that lead to heart disease and stroke are not also reduced. He further stated,
that, this progress in the reduction of death rates is a land mark achievement, and has come about as a result of tremendous efforts from many partners in research, health-care, government, business and communities."

He also said, " As encouraging as it is, heart disease and stroke remain the #1 and #3 causes of death in the United States. We still have remaining goals that we haven't yet met reductions in the risk factors that lead to heart disease and stroke, as well as eliminating the striking disparities in care for women and minority populations. We must continue to address those concerns at the same time we continue to support the advances that we know are saving lives today."

What has Contributed to this Landmark Reduction in the Death Rate?

As a result of ongoing scientific research there has been improvements in medication treatments and in technology applications for patients with heart and stroke conditions.

Treatment and prevention of heart disease and stroke, developed on evidence based practice guidelines have enhanced patient care and patient prognosis.

Emergency medical response and fire rescue teams are getting to the patients quickly, giving immediate emergency care and getting patients to the hospital quicker for medical care. These efforts have greatly improved the care and recovery of patients.

Community centers are training their local population to recognize the signs of stroke and heart attacks and teaching them how to do Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. This program has resulted in saving lives.

Increased awareness by the general population about controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels have resulted in the population eating healthier and improving their life styles.

Clean indoor air legislation and smoke free environments have also helped in reducing the death rates due to heart disease and stroke.

What Can We Do to Help the AHA in Continuing to Meet Their Goals?
We can maintain a healthy life style, with proper diet, exercise and reduction of stressors for ourselves and family members.
Join any of the following AHA sponsored groups:
"Go Red for Women Movement"-you will become part of the fight against heart disease the #1 killer of women in America.

"Start Awareness"-a group which promotes physical activities.

"Alliance for a Healthier Generation"- a group that focuses on Child Obesity.

"Power to End Stroke"- a group which promotes stroke awareness.

You can also donate your time and/or money to the AHA.
You can participate in an AHA walk or run.
Become an advocate for the prevention of heart disease and stroke.

For more information visit www.americanheart.org

Learn more about this author, Norma Chew.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

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