Cardiovascular disease encompasses disorders of the heart and blood vessels, and it is the most complicated and widespread health condition in the United States. In 2017, cardiovascular disease was the cause of more than 860,000 deaths in the United States. This disease kills about 17.9 million people every year and is supposed to grow past 23.6 million by 2030. 

According to Quinn Philips in “Heart Health Awareness Month,”  “Many risk factors for heart disease can be modified, including lack of physical activity, poor diet, and tobacco use.” Between 2006 and 2016, deaths due to cardiovascular disease decreased by 18.6 percent. 

This year, so many people are helping support events to educate everyone about cardiovascular disease and raise money for support services and research. February is American Heart Month, and this year they have given each day of the week a special meaning. For example: 

#SelfcareSunday Set yourself up for success by creating a self-care checklist for the week.

#MindfulMonday Know your heart stats, including blood pressure numbers.

#TastyTuesday Enjoy a delicious, heart-healthy recipe.

#WellnessWednesday Get your heart into your wellness routine.

#TreatYourselfThursday Treat yourself to some fun and relaxation.

#FollowFriday Share who inspires you to live a heart-healthy lifestyle.

#SelfieSaturday Post a selfie with your favorite way to take care of your heart.

Families are encouraged to follow these steps, and maybe even organize a support group to motivate others to keep themselves healthy.

There are also ways to spread awareness about the whole month in general. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute has created info cards and images for people to “raise awareness on the importance of this month.” There are also various articles you can read and share about heart health. 

National Wear Red Day

National Wear Red Day is on February 5th, 2022. Everyone is encouraged to wear red this day to spread awareness about heart disease. On that day, there will be a free global virtual dance fitness party from 12 to 12:30 EST. 

Heart Failure Awareness Week

Starting in 2001, February 14-20th has been designated as Heart Failure Awareness Week. During this annual period, there is a campaign to help people recognize the signs of heart failure and encourage people to keep a “heart-healthy lifestyle.” On February 17th, the Heart Failure Society of America hosts a live Twitter chat to discuss heart failure patients whose outcomes have improved. 

Heart Walk

The Heart Walk was made to raise money for the American Heart Association. Due to the pandemic, communities all around the country are doing this walk virtually. Many communities do their Heart Walk in February in recognition of Health Heart Month.

Kids Heart Challenge

There is also a way to involve children in promoting heart health. The Kids Heart Challenge is a school event organized locally with support from the American Heart Association. This event includes physical activities and educational games that teach children about the heart. This event also raises money for kids who have Heart disease.

Everyone is encouraged to spread awareness and participate in promoting heart health not only in the month of February, but throughout their lives. . The more people know, the more people can help.