Staff, students see red - in support of American Heart Month

The Southwest and Early Childhood Center campuses Friday was a sea of red as staff and students commemorated American Heart Month.

 

The annual designation began in 1963 to encourage Americans to join the battle against heart disease. A presidential proclamation pays tribute each year to researchers, physicians, public health professionals and volunteers for their tireless efforts in preventing, treating and researching heart disease, which is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S.

 

 

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. Every year, 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

 

We can use this month to raise awareness about heart disease and how people can prevent it — both at home and in the community.

Here are just a few ideas offered by the federal department:

• Encourage families to make small changes, like using spices to season their food instead of salt.
• Motivate teachers and administrators to make physical activity a part of the school day. This can help students start good habits early.
• Ask doctors and nurses to be leaders in their communities by speaking out about ways to prevent heart disease.