The American Heart Association advocates for proven heart disease and stroke prevention measures aimed at improving the health of all Americans. Our main areas of focus include:

• Obesity and physical activity
• Tobacco
• Nutrition
• Healthy built environment
• Blood pressure and cholesterol control
• CDC state prevention programs

The American Heart Association hopes to improve the heart health of all Americans by 20 percent by 2020.  To achieve this goal, the association supports policies and programs that reach Americans where they live, work, learn and play.  These policies and programs include more opportunities for physical activity, improved access to affordable and healthy foods, food labeling, support for programs that help people quit smoking and access to clinical preventive screenings.  By making a few simple changes in their day-to-day lives and receiving early diagnosis and treatment, most people can dramatically reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke and add years to their lives.  In fact, people age 50 and over can potentially add eight to eleven years to their lives by addressing key preventive factors for improved cardiovascular health, such as those outlined above.

How You Can Prevent Heart Disease and Stroke…
You don't have to be a doctor, nurse or public health expert to prevent heart disease and stroke,  just an advocate with the American Heart Association willing to ask your lawmakers or federal officials to support  policies that can help reduce risk factors for heart disease and stroke.  With just a few clicks, you can make a big difference by responding to action alerts on the issues most important to you. Join the You’re the Cure advocate network!