However, this simple and inexpensive test may have enormous potential for the medical community. Despite the wondrous technological breakthroughs and lifesaving capabilities of medical science, Dr. Cooke cautions that prevention is the top priority in terms of cardiac care. By getting back to the basics and by renewing our efforts at preventing the nation's number one killer from striking unnecessarily, we'll begin to make a difference. This is, in most cases, a preventable disease. Dr. Cooke also applauds the community by community approach to strengthening the chain of survival, enhancing public awareness and speeding heartsaving public response.
People are more and more aware of the things they can do to help improve their cardiac health.
Now we're looking to make a difference in the community. About The American Heart Association Founded in 1924, the American Heart Association includes more than 22.5 million volunteers who carry out its mission in communities across the country. The association is the largest voluntary health organization fighting heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases, which annually kill more than 950,000 Americans. Since 1963, February has been designated as American Heart Month by presidential proclamation to recognize the continuing fight against heart disease and stroke and the need for all Americans to take part. In September 1998, the American Heart Association set a strategic goal to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke and risk by 25 percent by the year 2008.