Make health, life changes during American Heart Month

February is American Heart Month, an awareness event coordinated by the American Heart Association since 1963. Cardiovascular diseases, including stroke, are the nation’s leading killer. Every day an estimated 2,500 people in the United States die of cardiovascular diseases, which is why fighting against them is so important.  

According to the AHA:

• One out of every three adults suffers from a cardiovascular disease. More than half are younger than 60.
• Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death for women 25 and older.
• Approximately 780,000 people suffer a new or recurrent stroke each year.

The National Safety Council reminds you to get heart healthy during February and beyond. Test your blood pressure and cholesterol regularly, and encourage family and friends to do the same. Be sure to exercise daily to help reduce your cardiac risk.

Also, take steps to help save someone suffering from cardiac arrest. Learn how to perform CPR and use an AED, both of which can nearly double a victim’s chance of survival.

NSC offers first aid, CPR and AED courses through its network of instructors and local chapters. Chapter contact information and an emergency care training center directory are available at www.nsc.org.