February is Heart Health Awareness Month

February indicates not only the onset of winter's thaw but also a touching reminder of the importance of heart health. As the nation observes American Heart Health Month, Indigenous communities across the nation join in raising awareness about cardiovascular disease, which disproportionately affects American Indians and Alaska Natives.

Despite advancements in medical science, cardiovascular diseases persist as the leading cause of global mortality, claiming over 17.9 million lives annually, according to the National Indian Council on Aging. Projections indicate a further rise to over 23.6 million deaths by 2030. Heart disease remains the primary cause of death in the United States.

Within the broader landscape of health disparities, American Indian/Alaska Natives face heightened risks of heart disease compared to their white counterparts. Statistics from the US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health reveal that AI/ANs exhibit higher rates of heart disease diagnosis, obesity, hypertension, and smoking.

https://nativenewsonline.net/health/february-is-heart-health-awareness-month