February 2024 Marks 'American Heart Month' in South Plainfield

Hey there folks! Did you know that almost half of grown-ups in the U.S. have some kind of heart trouble? Yup, it's true. The American Heart Association (AHA) says heart diseases are the main reason people kick the bucket in the country – men and women alike.

Here in South Plainfield, Mayor Matt Anesh declared February 2024 as ‘National Heart Month’ during a council meeting on Feb. 5. He pointed out that lots of folks don't even realize that heart disease is the big boss of all killers. It snuffs out more lives than the next four top causes of death combined – that includes all types of cancers!

Sad fact alert: Every year, over 650,000 Americans lose their lives to cardiovascular disease. And get this, a whopping 52% of deaths are because of heart problems, while 60% are linked to strokes. Ladies, listen up – heart disease is the leading cause of death for you, beating out all cancers combined. It's so deadly that it takes one woman's life every minute and causes one in three deaths each year.

So, let's pay attention to our tickers, folks! Keep those hearts healthy and happy. After all, it's National Heart Month in South Plainfield – let's show some love to our hearts! 💓

The mayor recently declared that 'Go Red for Women' is a crucial nationwide initiative by the American Heart Association (AHA). The purpose is to raise awareness about heart disease and motivate women to manage their heart health, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. He encouraged all women to understand their personal risk by consulting healthcare providers and utilizing tools like AHA’s My Life Check, Go Red For Women Heart Check-Up, and Go Red Better-U.

Mayor Anesh emphasized the significance of taking action and making the right choices in nutrition, physical activity, and other healthy lifestyle aspects for a heart-healthy life. He stated, "We encourage all citizens to support women and the fight against heart disease by wearing red this month. By increasing awareness, speaking about heart disease, and empowering women to reduce cardiovascular disease risk, we can save lives every year."

Debbie Boyle, a South Plainfield Mayor’s Wellness Committee member, along with Councilwoman Christine Faustini and Borough Clerk Amy Antonides, accepted the proclamation. Boyle expressed gratitude to the mayor and council, announcing the committee's plan to host various webinars throughout the year on diverse topics. Information on upcoming programs and links to past webinars can be found here.