Cherish Your Heartbeat: A Lifesaving Campaign for Portland and Vancouver Residents
PORTLAND, Oregon, February 1, 2025 — Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death in the United States, with alarming projections indicating that 61% of U.S. adults will face some form of CVD by 2050, according to recent data from the American Heart association. In response, the Association has launched the “Cherish Your Heartbeat” campaign, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at reducing heart disease and stroke risks for residents of Portland, Oregon, and southwest Washington.
Sponsored by the Vancouver Clinic, the campaign empowers individuals to take control of their heart health by understanding their key health metrics and collaborating with healthcare professionals to develop personalized treatment plans.
“Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your health. If you know your risk for heart attack or stroke, you can take steps to reduce your risk,” said Mark Mantei, American Heart Association volunteer board member and Vancouver Clinic chief executive officer. “Start today by working with your health care team to understand your risk of developing cardiovascular disease and create a treatment plan that works for you.”
The campaign emphasizes the importance of managing risk factors such as high blood pressure, a leading contributor to heart disease. Regular health screenings, medication management, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits—like maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in physical activity, and reducing stress—are critical steps in combating CVD.
As the american Heart Association enters its second century of lifesaving work, the “Cherish Your Heartbeat” campaign will also focus on hypertension awareness, encouraging individuals to take proactive measures for a longer, healthier life.
Key Steps to Cherish Your Heartbeat
| Action | Impact |
|———————————|—————————————————————————|
| Schedule a health screening | Identify risk factors like high blood pressure early. |
| Work with a healthcare provider | Develop a personalized treatment plan. |
| Adopt healthy habits | Improve diet, increase physical activity, and reduce stress. |
The campaign, which runs through spring 2025, urges the Portland and Vancouver communities to prioritize heart health by scheduling appointments with primary care clinicians.
The American Heart Association, a global leader in cardiovascular health, continues to advocate for equitable health access and groundbreaking research. Connect with the Association on heart.org/oregon, Facebook, Instagram, or X, or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 for more facts.
Take the frist step today. Cherish your heartbeat—every single day.
Cherish Your Heartbeat: A Lifesaving Conversation on Heart Health with Dr. Emily Carter
Table of Contents
In a world where cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death,the “Cherish Your Heartbeat” campaign has emerged as a beacon of hope for Portland and Vancouver residents. Sponsored by the Vancouver Clinic and spearheaded by the American Heart Association, this initiative focuses on early detection, hypertension awareness, and proactive health management. To delve deeper into the campaign’s goals and strategies, we sat down with Dr. Emily Carter, a renowned cardiologist and advocate for heart health, to discuss how individuals can take charge of their cardiovascular well-being.
the Importance of Early Detection and Health Screenings
Senior Editor: Dr. Carter, the campaign emphasizes scheduling health screenings as a critical frist step. why is early detection so vital in preventing cardiovascular disease?
dr. emily Carter: Early detection is absolutely essential because many risk factors for CVD, such as high blood pressure or elevated cholesterol, are often silent. You might not feel any symptoms until it’s too late. regular health screenings allow us to identify these risks early, giving individuals the opportunity to make lifestyle changes or start treatments before serious complications arise. For example,catching hypertension in its early stages can considerably reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Collaborating with Healthcare Providers
Senior Editor: The campaign encourages working with healthcare providers to create personalized treatment plans. what does this collaboration look like in practice?
Dr. Emily Carter: Collaboration is key to effective heart health management. It starts with a thorough assessment of your medical history, lifestyle, and current health metrics. From there, we work with patients to develop a tailored plan that might include medication, dietary changes, exercise routines, and stress management techniques. The goal is to address the unique needs of each individual. As a notable example,someone with a family history of heart disease might require more intensive monitoring and preventive measures. By partnering with your healthcare provider, you’re not just treating symptoms—you’re building a sustainable, healthier future.
Adopting Healthy Habits for Lifelong Wellness
Senior Editor: Lifestyle changes are a cornerstone of the campaign. What are some practical steps people can take to improve their heart health?
Dr. Emily Carter: Small, consistent changes can have a profound impact. Start by focusing on your diet—incorporate more whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and reduce processed foods high in sodium and unhealthy fats.Physical activity is another crucial factor; even 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week can make a big difference. Stress management is often overlooked but equally important. Practices like mindfulness, yoga, or simply taking time to relax can lower stress hormones, which are directly linked to heart health. Remember,it’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. Every step toward a healthier lifestyle counts.
The Role of Community in Promoting Heart Health
Senior Editor: the campaign is very community-focused. How can Portland and Vancouver residents come together to support this initiative?
Dr. Emily Carter: Community is a powerful motivator.When people see their friends, family, or neighbors prioritizing heart health, it creates a ripple effect. Simple actions like organizing group fitness activities, sharing healthy recipes, or encouraging each other to attend health screenings can foster a culture of wellness. The Vancouver Clinic and the American Heart Association are also hosting events and providing resources to make it easier for everyone to get involved. Together, we can create a healthier, heart-conscious community.
A Final Message for Readers
Senior Editor: As we wrap up, what’s your final message for our readers who want to cherish their heartbeat?
Dr. Emily Carter: Start today.Don’t wait for a wake-up call to prioritize your heart health.Schedule that health screening, reach out to your healthcare provider, and take small steps toward a healthier lifestyle. Remember, your heartbeat is precious—it’s the rhythm of your life. By taking proactive measures now, you’re investing in a longer, healthier future for yourself and your loved ones. Let’s cherish our heartbeats, every single day.
Conclusion: Dr. Emily Carter’s insights remind us that heart health is within our control. Through early detection, collaboration with healthcare providers, adopting healthy habits, and fostering community support, we can all take meaningful steps to reduce our risk of cardiovascular disease. The “Cherish Your Heartbeat” campaign is not just a call to action—it’s a lifeline for a healthier tomorrow.
