President Joe Biden on Tuesday issued a proclamation designating February as American Heart Month.
“Heart disease has long been the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming nearly 700,000 lives a year. Nearly half of all American adults have at least one major risk factor for cardiovascular disease,’’ Biden said. “From heart attacks and strokes to high blood pressure, the threat of cardiovascular disease touches almost every family in our Nation. But while heart conditions can be costly and deadly, they are also often preventable with access to affordable health care, advancements in technology, and lifestyle changes.”
This February, HealthCode is encouraging people across the nation to get into the habit of a heart-healthy active lifestyle with the Love Your Health virtual activity challenge. In addition, HealthCode is encouraging everyone to bring attention to cardiovascular health by wearing red on National Wear Red Day on Friday February 3.
“Now more than ever, it is crucial to raise awareness about steps we can take to maintain a healthyheart, including the importance of physical activity and nutrition,’’ said Steve Amos, founder and CEO of HealthCode. “We are encouraging everyone to join the Love Your Health virtual challenge to stayactive – and love your heart.”
Participating in the Love Your Health activity challenge is easy. Participants sign up on the Love Your Health registration page and pick a mileage goal for the month and log miles or minutes on the HealthCode online activity tracker.
Throughout the month, the program leaderboard is updated with miles achieved worldwide. Participants can join as an individual or as part of an organization. Employers and other organizations can register at https://healthcode.org/organizations.
HealthCode, a nonprofit based in Austin, Texas, is dedicated to empowering people to live healthier, happier lives, free from preventable diseases like cardiovascular disease.
The American Heart Association tracks behaviors and health factors that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and created Life’s Essential 8 lifestyle changes for a healthy heart.
These heart-healthy behaviors include not smoking, healthy eating, getting more sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, controlling blood sugar and cholesterol, treating high blood pressure and getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week, according to the American Heart Association.