Studies show that heart disease can begin in childhood.
In fact, the President's Council on Physical Fitness says 40 percent of children ages five to eight exhibit at least one risk factor for cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and low capacity for exertion. The American Heart Association is taking action to help our children. Each year, we partner with schools across the country to teach children about the importance of heart-healthy behavior. Age-appropriate activities and programs have been developed that make learning about heart disease and stroke fun. Millions of children have been reached so far and the numbers keep growing.