Tips to Protect Your Heart this Month
The month of February has long been synonymous with tender heart shapes and the vibrant color of red—thanks to the annual celebration of Valentine’s Day.
But there’s more reason than ever to be “heart conscious” and embrace the color of love this time each year because February is Heart Disease Awareness Month.
Heart disease disproportionally affects women. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that heart disease is the number one killer of women. The American Heart Associate reaffirms this by noting that heart disease kills more women than all cancers combined. But what can we do about it from a volunteer standpoint? Plenty!
Work to create smoke free public places Secondhand smoke is estimated to kill 35,000 non-smokers a year. In addition, smoking is strongly associated with heart disease. Start by finding out what the smoking laws & regulations are in your county and educating others. Too often we only notice smoking in inappropriate places when we encounter it, but by brushing up on the legalities you will be more prepared to lobby to create smoke free public areas in your community.
Volunteer at your local hospital or American Heart Association While some steer away from volunteer positions in the medical field, it can be a rewarding and eye-opening experience. You can spread cheer to those affected with homemade gifts, cards, or conversation. The American Heart Association relies on the difference on person can make; be that person to affect major change. Click here to find open volunteer opportunities.
Join a Go Red for Women community If an individual has extraordinary power to create change, imagine what a group could do! Meet up with like-minded advocates in your community to spread awareness this month at Go For Red.
Get children involved Its never too early to instill healthy habits in children! Get involved in First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move initiative. It focuses on healthy eating skills and getting active with physical activity. Contribute to the health of future generations by creating access to affordable and healthy food, promoting physical activity, and educating others to make healthy choices!
How will you fight heart disease this month? Has your community been touched by heart disease? Let us know in the comments below!
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