Ohio Senate approves February 14 as Cardiovascular Health Awareness Day

Ohio has officially designated February 14 as Cardiovascular Health Awareness Day following the unanimous passage of Senate Bill 18 during a recent legislative session. Sponsored by Senator Reynolds and co-sponsored by Senator Herschel Craig, the bill aims to raise awareness about heart disease, which claims more lives in Ohio than car accidents, cancer, and COVID-19 combined.

Senator Reynolds emphasized the urgency of this initiative, highlighting that heart disease is a silent killer, claiming an Ohioan every 90 minutes. She shared the story of Maria, a 42-year-old mother who, after attending a free heart screening, discovered her dangerously high blood pressure. This early detection led to life-saving medical intervention, underscoring the importance of awareness and education about heart health.

The bill's passage is not merely symbolic; it aims to mobilize communities to host health screenings, encourage workplaces to promote wellness, and empower families to discuss heart health. Senator Craig echoed these sentiments, noting that heart disease disproportionately affects African American communities and emphasizing the need for public education on risk factors such as unhealthy diets and tobacco use.

With heart disease responsible for over 26,000 deaths annually in Ohio, the establishment of Cardiovascular Health Awareness Day is a proactive step towards reducing these numbers. The initiative encourages Ohioans to take their heart health seriously, aligning with the day’s traditional celebration of love. As the state moves forward, the focus will be on fostering a culture of health awareness that could save countless lives.