Welcome to the American Heart Association’s Mid-Atlantic Affiliate (MAA) blog! We’re excited to share how we are working with our communities to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
Over 1200 Horses and Riders Gallop for Heart in Myrtle Beach
Every Fall, 1,200+ horseback riders from across the country take to the beaches of Myrtle Beach, SC for the 5 day, 4 night American Heart Association Beach Ride. Entering it’s 38th year, the event raises over $350,000 per year for the AHA. Patron Circle member of the Cor Vitae Society and rider, Paul Riefenberg is dedicated to the cause due to a long history with heart disease through family and friends. Paul and his wife, Terrie, travel down each year from North Carolina. "You don’t have to look far to find a family member, friend or business associate that has [...]
Tips to keep blood pressure in check this holiday season
Let’s be honest. Holidays can be stressful. Schedules are hectic, we’re scrambling for last minute gifts and it’s the season of stuffy noses and financial woes. All of these stressors can negatively impact our health and for those with hypertension, stress can cause a fluctuation in blood pressure. The good news? We’ve teamed up with Bon Secours St. Francis Health System to bring you some easy ways to keep your blood pressure in check this holiday season to reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke. Be wary of decongestants. Before you use an over-the-counter cold and flu medication, check to [...]
Heart Healthy 2018 Policy Accomplishments in the Greater Washington Region
Washington, DC- Thanks to the dedication, passion, and hard work of You’re the Cure volunteers, 2018 was another successful year of public policy accomplishments for heart health in Greater Washington. You’re the Cure advocates were active in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia to support, defend, and help pass legislation that will continue to make our region a national leader in heart healthy policies and healthy living. Washington, DC: Raised its cigarette tax by $2, to $4.50/pack, the nation’s highest state tax. Increased the age to purchase tobacco from 18 to 21 and dedicated $1.9 million to cessation programs. Restricted [...]
Baltimore Celebrates the Passage of Complete Streets
The City of Baltimore’s Complete Streets Bill became a law on December 6. This legislation is the most progressive, equity-focused Complete Streets ordinance in the country. Councilman Ryan Dorsey and the Baltimore Complete Streets Coalition introduced the Complete Streets Ordinance in July 2017 to increase safety and mobility and help curb reckless driving. It will: Ensure streets are designed for people and safety first. Create a process for more robust community input on street design. Ensure that the benefits of safe and complete streets are shared among all residents. Create a body to oversee the implementation of the policy. “As [...]
Local Health Systems in Richmond, VA Earn National Recognition for Commitment to Improve High Blood Pressure
The American Heart Association (AHA) and American Medical Association (AMA) recognized Virginia Cardiovascular Specialists, VCU Health System and Central Virginia Health Services as leaders in their national initiative, called Target: BP, to get people’s blood pressure under control and reduce the number of Americans who have heart attacks and strokes each year. Virginia Cardiovascular Specialists achieved Gold status, while VCU Health System and Central Virginia Health Services achieved Participant status recognition. “Blood pressure control has and will continue to be a health priority in our community, “ says Michelle Nostheide, Executive Director for the American Heart Association in Greater Richmond. [...]
Hundreds of S.C. Clinics Recognized for Efforts Aimed at Reducing High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
Columbia, SC– Healthcare leaders from South Carolina gathered in Columbia and recognized 150 clinics from across the state for their commitment to the Target BP and Check Change Control Initiatives, encouraged others to participate, and discussed how to sustain efforts to reduce heart attacks and strokes over time. The event took place at the River Center in Saluda Shoals. Launched in 2015, Target: BP™ is a national initiative between the American Heart Association and American Medical Association aimed at addressing the growing burden of high blood pressure in the U.S. More than 1,100 physician practices and health systems nationwide have [...]
Go Red For Women Appears in Triad Holiday Parade
Greensboro, NC - The American Heart Association was proud to have a Go Red For Women entry in the Triad Holiday Parades on Saturday. National Go Red For Women Sponsor Macy’s and Forsyth County Go Red For Women Sponsor Novant Health joined with local Go Red Women, survivors, volunteers and the Jazzy Jumpers to share heart-healthy messages and holiday wishes with our Triad community!
Healthy Holiday Travel Tips
Whether you’re traveling to see family or spending a week in the Caribbean, maintaining healthy habits can be difficult when you’re away from home. The American Heart Association and Bon Secours St. Francis Health System have worked together to bring you quick tips to keep you on track this holiday season. Move More Staying active while traveling can be difficult but, here are some simple ways to get moving. Start the trip off right at the airport -- get in extra steps by avoiding the conveyor belt people-movers. If you’re a member of a gym back at home, see if [...]
