Ever feel alone in your efforts to lead a heart healthy lifestyle? Well, take heart - you actually have lots of good company. Back on December 30, 1963, the importance of the ongoing fight against cardiovascular disease was acknowledged by a Joint Resolution approved by Congress. The resolution requested that the President issue an annual proclamation designating February as "American Heart Month."

In his Proclamation, President George W. Bush indicated the pervasiveness of the problem, indicating that, "More than 70 million Americans live with some sort of heart disease, and this disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States." In addition to reinforcing America's commitment to promoting awareness of the risks and causes of heart disease, the President offered further good news and encouragement: "Many of the factors that lead to heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and obesity, can be controlled with commonsense steps and healthy lifestyles."

President Bush noted that all Americans can improve their heart health and live longer, better lives by taking an active role in their health care decisions and consulting their physicians for the latest information. More specifically, the President encouraged Americans to work toward four simple goals that can lead to a healthier heart:

• Exercise daily.
  
  
• Develop good eating habits.
  
  
• Avoid tobacco, drugs, and excessive alcohol.
  
  
• Use preventive screening to detect problems early.
  
  

American Heart Month is inclusive of far more than people who have, or are at risk of developing, heart disease. It is intended to be a nationwide celebration of heart health in which, President Bush says, "We recognize those battling heart disease; we express gratitude to the family members and friends who are a source of love and encouragement; and we commend the medical professionals and researchers who provide assistance and work to find cures and improve treatments."

Source: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/02/20060201-9.html

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