HOT SPRINGS, Ark., Sept. 18, 2024 – The American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives, is proud to join the World Heart Federation in celebrating World Heart Day on Sept. 29. This year’s theme, “Use Heart to Save Lives,” emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps to protect and improve heart health.
World Heart Day is a crucial reminder of the impact cardiovascular disease (CVD) has on individuals and communities worldwide. The American Heart Association encourages everyone to take action by focusing on three key areas:
- Learn CPR: Immediate CPR can double or triple a person’s chances of survival during cardiac arrest. The Association offers resources and training to help you learn this life-saving skill.
- Get a Flu Shot: Protecting yourself from the flu can reduce the risk of heart complications. The flu vaccine is especially important for those with existing heart conditions.
- Understand the Statistics: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally, accounting for an estimated 17.9 million deaths each year. In the United States, one person dies every 33 seconds from cardiovascular disease. These statistics highlight the urgent need for increased awareness and preventive measures.
“World Heart Day is about what you can do to get, and keep, hearts healthy,” said Dr. Jason Pelton, an interventional cardiologist at CHI St. Vincent in Hot Springs and a volunteer spokesman for the American Heart Association-Central Arkansas. “By taking these simple steps, you can make a significant difference in your own heart health and the health of those around you.”
The American Heart Association also emphasizes the importance of regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and routine health check-ups. Engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, maintaining a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting saturated fats, trans fats, and sodium can help manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
“Prevention is key,” added Pelton. “Small, consistent changes in lifestyle can lead to substantial improvements in heart health. We encourage everyone to take these steps not just on World Heart Day, but every day.”
Join the American Heart Association in spreading awareness and taking action to combat cardiovascular disease. For more information on how you can get involved, visit heart.org or follow @AHAArkansas on social media and post using the hashtag #WorldHeartDay.
For 100 years, the American Heart Association has saved and improved lives, pioneered scientific discovery and advocated for healthy public policies in communities across the country. These bold moves are fueled by our mission to be a relentless force for longer, healthier lives. They have helped transform our nation’s health and significantly reduce heart disease and stroke death rates. But these gains have not been shared equitably. Black, Hispanic, Native American, Native Hawaiian, Asian American, Pacific Islander and LGBTQ+ people have suffered and died disproportionately. So have people in historically underrepresented communities all over the country. With Bold Hearts™ and powered by science, we pledge to work relentlessly to eliminate heart disease and stroke, optimize brain health and ensure equitable health in every community.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook or X by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries
Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
