American Heart Month, 2014

___________________________________________________________________

Title 3--
The President

Proclamation 9079 of January 31, 2014

American Heart Month, 2014

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Maintaining a strong heart is key to a long and healthy
life. The number one killer of American men and women,
cardiovascular disease is responsible for one out of
every four deaths in the United States. During American
Heart Month, we renew our fight, both as a Nation and
in each of our own lives, against the devastating
epidemic of heart disease.

While anyone can develop heart disease, those with high
blood pressure or high cholesterol and those who smoke
are at greater risk. Risk factors like diabetes,
obesity, poor diet, physical inactivity, and excessive
alcohol use can also increase the likelihood of
developing heart disease. By adopting a few healthy
habits--getting regular exercise; not smoking; eating
diets rich in fruits and vegetables and low in salt,
saturated fat, and cholesterol--each of us can reduce
our risk. Following health care providers' instructions
can also improve heart health and lessen the chance of
heart attack.

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, millions of
Americans have gained access to affordable health care
coverage, including recommended preventive screenings
with no out-of-pocket cost. As we improve access to
coverage, my Administration remains committed to
supporting scientific research and raising awareness of
heart disease. In 2011, we launched Million Hearts,
which aims to prevent one million heart attacks and
strokes by 2017. And through First Lady Michelle
Obama's Let's Move! initiative, we are helping young
people make the positive choices that will keep them
healthy throughout their lives.

On Friday, February 7, everyone will have the chance to
show their support for heart health by observing
National Wear Red Day. Michelle and I encourage
Americans to wear red in solidarity with those
struggling with heart disease and in acknowledgement of
the hardworking health care professionals who provide
life-saving treatment, research, and advice. As we
honor their contributions, let us take ownership of our
heart health and commit to positive lifestyles, this
month and throughout the year.

In acknowledgement of the importance of the ongoing
fight against cardiovascular disease, the Congress, by
Joint Resolution approved December 30, 1963, as amended
(77 Stat. 843; 36 U.S.C. 101), has requested that the
President issue an annual proclamation designating
February as ``American Heart Month.''

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim February
2014 as American Heart Month, and I invite all
Americans to participate in National Wear Red Day on
February 7, 2014. I also invite the Governors of the
States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, officials of
other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United
States, and the American people to join me in
recognizing and reaffirming our commitment to fighting
cardiovascular disease.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
thirty-first day of January, in the year of our Lord
two thousand fourteen, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
eighth.