Supporting The Goals And IDeals Of American Heart Month

SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND IDEALS OF AMERICAN HEART MONTH -- (House of Representatives - February 27, 2007)

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Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Con. Res. 52 supporting the goals and ideals of American Heart Month. February is American Heart Month, and each year since 1963 Congress has charged the President to claim February American Heart Month.

The goal of American Heart Month is to raise funds, conduct research, and promote education about heart disease and stroke.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and the major cause of disability. The most common heart disease in the U.S. is coronary heart disease, which often first appears as a heart attack. Almost 1.2 million people in the U.S. will have a heart attack and about 700,000 people die of heart disease annually.

Each of us should continue to take steps to prevent and control factors that put us at greater risk. Prevention measures certainly help to reduce the risks for heart disease and its effects. Additionally, knowing the signs and symptoms of heart attack are crucial to the most positive outcomes after having a heart attack. Recognizing and responding quickly to symptoms and receiving appropriate care can limit heart damage. People who have survived a heart attack can also work to reduce their risk of another heart attack or a stroke in the future. Research has shown a healthy diet and life style are the best weapons you have to fight heart disease.

I would like to thank the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Millender-McDonald) for her work on this issue. I certainly urge my colleagues to support H. Con. Res. 52.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

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