Heart Health Awareness: Rise Above Heart Failure · Self-Check Plan · For Women
American Heart Assoc. New Jersey · NJ Dept. of Health Resources
Sources: American Heart Association; BlackDoctor.org
The American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary health organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular disease and stroke, has recognized award-winning actress, singer, songwriter and producer Queen Latifah for her dedication and commitment to raising awareness about heart failure, a dangerous, chronic condition affecting more than 6.5 million Americans. According to AHA CEO Nancy Brown, Queen Latifah “is helping others understand the signs and symptoms of the condition and providing support so they can live a full life. She is truly an inspiration.”
Queen Latifah knows first-hand the importance of understanding the symptoms and treatment for heart failure. She’s the primary caregiver for her mother, Rita Owens, who is living with the condition.
“My mom means everything to me, and I am excited to dedicate this award to her,” said Queen Latifah. “For my entire life, she has been my rock. When she was diagnosed with heart failure, I didn’t think twice before stepping up as her caregiver. It wasn’t an easy process, but I hope that our experiences can empower and inspire others who are also living with heart failure.”
Heart failure is a chronic, progressive condition in which the heart can’t pump blood efficiently enough to meet the body’s needs. More than 6.5 million Americans are living with HF and more than 308,000 people die from it each year. One in five people will have heart failure in their lifetime with nearly a million new cases diagnosed each year.
But the condition is manageable if it’s diagnosed early. Making sure patients and their families recognize symptoms and talk to a doctor to get on an appropriate treatment plan is critical.
The American Heart Association is devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke – the two leading causes of death in the world. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHA-USA1, visit heart.org.