LANSING, Mich., Feb. 6, 2025 — The Michigan House of Representatives passed a resolution with unanimous support earlier this week to declare February 2025 as American Heart Month in Michigan. This will bring awareness to the devastating effects of heart disease and encourage people to take control of their heart health.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, heart disease is the leading cause of death for Americans. One person dies from heart disease every 33 seconds.
“It is incredibly vital to look after your heart health by learning the risk factors and making any necessary lifestyle changes,” said state Rep. Julie M. Rogers (D-Kalamazoo), who sponsored the resolution. “As a practicing health care provider, I’ve seen the devastating effects of heart disease firsthand and the toll it can take on a person’s mental and physical health. This month, and every month, I encourage people to take the time to learn what they can do to prevent heart disease.”
Legislators wore red in support of the resolution and the American Heart Association’s “National Wear Red Day” movement, which brings awareness to the clinical care gaps women face in the fight against cardiovascular disease. Factors such as pregnancy and menopause can put women at an increased risk, yet less than half of women entering pregnancy have optimal cardiovascular health.
“Because they often experience different symptoms, cardiovascular disease can be a silent killer of women, especially during pregnancy and postpartum,” Rogers said. “That’s why it is essential that we continue to work to improve access and quality to health care, especially maternal care, to ensure everyone has regular access to lifesaving testing and care.”
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