February is American Heart Month

February is American Heart Month

Cardiovascular diseases, including stroke, are our nation's No. 1 killer. To urge Americans to join the battle against these diseases, since 1963 Congress has required the president to proclaim February "American Heart Month."

The American Heart Association works with the administration to draft and sign this annual proclamation. During American Heart Month, thousands of our volunteers visit their neighbors. Their goal is to raise funds for research and education and pass along information about heart disease and stroke.

The American Heart Association is a national voluntary health agency whose mission is: "Building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke."

The association's impact goal is to reduce coronary heart disease, stroke and risk by 25 percent by 2010. Progress toward the goal will be measured according to these indicators:

1. Reduce the death rate from coronary heart disease and stroke by 25 percent.


2. Reduce the prevalence of smoking, high blood cholesterol and physical inactivity by 25 percent.


3. Reduce the rate of uncontrolled high blood pressure by 25 percent.


4. Eliminate the growth of obesity and diabetes.

For more Information
American Heart Month
American Heart Association
7272 Greenville Avenue
Dallas, TX 75231
(800) 242-8721
mailto:inquires@heart.orgwww.americanheart.org
http://www.americanheart.org/
Materials availableContact: Program departments or local chapters