Slaughter Asks Residents to Recognize American Heart Month, Review Personal Health

CHICAGO – State Rep. Justin Slaughter, D-Chicago, is urging residents to recognize American Heart Month in February by reviewing the facts about heart health and how they can make healthy choices.

“I urge residents to research the facts about heart health and make sure that they are making healthy choices for themselves and their families,” Slaughter said. “Heart disease affects every family, and it’s critical that residents understand the risks and how they can avert them.”

According to the American Heart Association, an estimated 85.6 million people in the United States are living with cardiovascular diseases, which can lead to heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure and chest pain. Among American adults, 32.6 percent (about 80 million) have high blood pressure. Despite an overall 28.8 percent drop in cardiovascular disease death rates from 2003 to 2013, the high blood pressure death rate has steadily increased by 8.2 percent over that same time.

For more information about heart health, and to learn about ways to reduce risk, residents can visit the American Heart Association’s website at www.heart.org.

“It is important for residents to be proactive in making sure they are taking care of their health and well-being,” Slaughter said. “Whether it’s making a healthier eating choice, going to the gym or visiting a doctor, any step toward a healthier life is a positive move.”

For more information, please contact Slaughter’s constituent service office at 773-445-9700 slaughterj@ilga.gov.