American Heart Month - February 2025

AMERICAN HEART MONTH

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular disease is the world’s number one cause of death, killing over 17 million people every year, more than all forms of cancer combined. Major risk factors include high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, and high cholesterol levels. Each year, heart disease takes the lives of two out of three women.  

Heart health starts with the variety of foods you eat to how well you exercise and beyond. Getting less than 7 hours of sleep regularly can increase your risk of heart disease. Conscious efforts to be better with the habits that directly impact our health, will go a long way.

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Did you know?

National Wear Red Day aims to provide awareness for cardiovascular diseases and to encourage people to “know their numbers,” to check on their hearts to prevent the disease. Specifically, individuals should have their cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, and BMI checked, as these factors contribute largely to heart disease risk.

The American Heart Association (AHA) initiated National Wear Red Day as part of their Go Red for Women initiative, which supports awareness for the cardiac health of women. When experiencing a cardiac event, women also often display different symptoms than men on top of chest pain, which may delay seeking immediate care. These symptoms include jaw and lower back pain, shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting.  

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SUPPORTING #AmericanHeartMonth

American Heart Month is a vital reminder to prioritize your heart health and raise awareness about cardiovascular disease and its impact on humans everywhere.

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How to Observe American Heart Month:

• Encourage wearing red to show support for heart health.  

This year, National Wear Red Day is February 3rd, 2025. By sporting this vibrant color, you'll help raise awareness about cardiovascular health and the importance of preventing heart disease. Let's paint the town red and inspire others to take charge of their heart health!  

• Learn about and remember your blood type

What's your blood type? Some examples: O positive donors are needed more often than other blood types. O negative donors are considered "universal donors." AB positive donors are "universal recipients."  

• Screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and other heart health factors

Ask your local healthcare providers to help set up a heart screening camp in your school, neighborhood, or organization. Make banners and flyers for the event and distribute them in your area. Ask your friends and colleagues to spread the information about the screening by talking about it on social media.  

• Preparing and eating heart-healthy meals

Eating for a healthy heart starts at home! Try cooking and eating at home at least three times a week. Limit saturated fats by swapping butter for olive oil and choosing lean proteins like fish and chicken. Load up on colorful fruits and veggies, and opt for whole grains over refined ones. Cut back on salt and sugary drinks, and you'll be well on your way to a healthier heart.  

• Fundraisers for heart research and patient care

Host a fun and engaging fundraiser to spread awareness about American Heart Month.  From sugar-free/gluten-free bake sales to fitness challenges to themed parties and online auctions, every contribution makes a difference. Let's raise awareness and funds to support vital heart research and education, helping to build a community with stronger, healthier hearts.  

• Do some volunteering

Heart screening and health centers are always conducting pop-up sessions and they are always seeking out enthusiastic volunteers. Highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment of heart conditions can help others in ways unimaginable.  

• Participate in health events

Join or set up online support groups to encourage one another to eat healthier, work out, and develop healthier lifestyle habits.  

• Raise awareness about Healthy Heart Month

You can talk to your friends and family about it or share information on social media. Shine a spotlight on cardiovascular issues worldwide, because heart health does not discriminate.  

• Use #AmericanHeartMonth to share on social media.