February 1-28

American Heart Month

Show your heart some love this American Heart Month - make sure to eat healthy, exercise regularly, and get regular check-ups for a healthier you!

Yearly Date

February 1

Observed in

United States

Introduction

February 1 marks the start of American Heart Month, a special time to celebrate and promote heart health in the United States. This month-long event was initiated by the American Heart Association in 1964 and continues to this day with its mission to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases and promote healthy lifestyle choices. During this special month, individuals can get involved in activities such as participating in heart health walks or educational events that focus on heart disease prevention. So let's join together to show our support for a healthier America!

American Heart Month Timeline

1948

Formation of American Heart Association

The American Heart Association (AHA) is officially established, aiming to fight heart disease and stroke by funding research and promoting healthy lifestyles.

1960

AHA's First Public Awareness Campaign

The AHA launches its first nationwide public health campaign to increase awareness about cardiovascular diseases.

1964

Presidential Proclamation of American Heart Month

President Lyndon B. Johnson, a heart attack survivor, proclaims February as American Heart Month in order to raise public awareness about heart disease.

1984

Introduction of Cholesterol Guidelines

The AHA releases the first guidelines on cholesterol, emphasizing its link to heart disease and the importance of monitoring cholesterol levels.

2003

Launch of Go Red for Women

The AHA launches "Go Red for Women," a campaign to raise awareness about heart disease as the leading cause of death for women.

2020

Heart Disease Stats & COVID-19

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, statistics underline the vital importance of maintaining heart health, as those with heart disease are at higher risk for severe illness from the virus.

How to Celebrate American Heart Month

1 Walk for your heart

Take a walk around the block or in the park. Walking is one of the best ways to keep your heart healthy.

2 Eat heart healthy meals

Make sure your meals are full of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats like nuts, seeds, and olive oil.

3 Volunteer for a cause

Volunteer at a local hospital or community center to help spread awareness about heart health.

4 Organize a fundraiser

Organize a fundraiser for a local charity that focuses on heart health and donate the proceeds.

5 Start a walking group

Start an informal walking group with friends, family, and co-workers and encourage each other to stay active throughout the month.

Why American Heart Month is Important

It raises awareness about heart health

American Heart Month is dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of taking care of our hearts and understanding the risk factors associated with heart disease. By increasing public knowledge and education, it helps promote good health habits, such as increasing physical activity levels, eating a healthy diet, reducing stress and getting regular checkups.

It encourages people to get screened

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America and early detection can save lives. American Heart Month provides an opportunity for everyone to learn more about their own risks by getting screened for high cholesterol, diabetes, and other heart-related conditions. This can be lifesaving for those at heightened risk for heart disease.

It supports research into heart disease

American Heart Month is an important time to come together and support research into the causes, treatments and cures of various forms of heart disease. The month’s attention helps raise money to help fund important new studies that could revolutionize how we treat cardiac issues - saving countless lives in the long run.