Nancy Brinker United States Ambassador
Health Crisis That’s Killing Millions of Americans
A
merican heart month is both a time of refl ection and a call to action. The annual observance
this month is not only an opportunity to raise awareness about heart health, but also a moment to refl ect on the legacies of those who have dedicat- ed themselves to improving the well- being of others. One such individual whose impact
resonates deeply is former fi rst lady Laura Bush. Bush, known for her grace and com-
passion, left an indelible mark on pub- lic health during her time in the White House. Her commitment to education and health initiatives, particularly those aff ecting women, continues to inspire advocates and change-makers. As we refl ect upon her legacy, we
must channel our collective eff orts toward addressing a health crisis that aff ects millions of Americans: heart disease. Heart disease remains the leading
cause of death in the United States, aff ecting people of all ages, races, and backgrounds. American Heart Month serves as
a poignant reminder that we have the power to change this narrative through education, awareness, and action. Bush’s legacy exemplifies the
impact individuals can have when they champion important causes, and we can think of no better way to honor her than by taking up the mantle in the fi ght against heart disease. The statistics are sobering — one
in four deaths in the U.S. is attrib- uted to heart disease. The prevalence of cardiovascular issues demands our attention, and American Heart Month
30 NEWSMAX | FEBRUARY 2024
provides a focused platform to raise awareness about prevention, early detection, and healthy living. Bush was such a strong proponent
of education and public advocacy in support of heart health because she recognized that it is a vital tool in the fi ght against heart disease. We must ensure that individuals
are equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health. This includes understand- ing risk factors, recognizing warning signs, and embracing lifestyle changes that promote heart health.
I
n most cases, heart disease is preventable when people adopt
a healthy lifestyle, which includes not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, controlling blood sugar and cholesterol, treating high blood pres- sure, getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week, and having regular checkups. Additionally, access to healthcare
is crucial, and we must work to elimi- nate barriers preventing individuals from seeking and receiving neces- sary medical attention. Bush’s commitment to promoting
access to quality healthcare for all Americans serves as a guiding prin- ciple as we address the disparities that exist in cardiovascular care. As we navigate the landscape of American Heart Month, let us not only celebrate the contributions of Laura Bush, but also rededicate our- selves to the cause she continues to hold dear. By fostering a culture of aware-
ness, education, and advocacy, we can make signifi cant strides in the fi ght against heart disease and work toward a healthier, more resilient nation. In the spirit of Bush’s legacy, let American Heart Month be a catalyst for change — a time when communi- ties, healthcare professionals, and policymakers come together to prior- itize heart health, reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease, and build a future where the next generations live longer, healthier lives.
Nancy G. Brinker is the founder of Susan G. Komen and The Promise Fund of Florida, an organization dedicated to defeating breast cancer. She served as U.S. ambassador to Hungary.
THE CREATIVE GUY/SHUTTERSTOCK
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