[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 21 (Wednesday, February 14, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E181-E182]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          AMERICAN HEART MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID E. PRICE

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 14, 2001

  Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I want to join my 
colleagues in recognizing February as American Heart Month. I commend 
the American Heart Association and other organizations for their 
efforts to raise awareness of heart disease. Their work is essential to 
reducing the physical, emotional, and economic burden of heart disease 
on the American public.

[[Page E182]]

  Heart disease remains the number one killer in America. Currently 20 
million Americans are living with some form of this disease. In 1997 
alone, over nineteen thousand North Carolinians died of heart disease. 
Every American is at risk for heart disease, and most of us have loved 
ones who have suffered from some form of this disease. The financial 
cost to the American public is immense. Heart disease, together with 
stroke and other cardiovascular diseases, are estimated to cost 
approximately $300 billion in medical expenses and lost productivity in 
2001.
  One way each of us can help reduce the number of deaths and 
disability from heart disease is by being prepared for cardiac 
emergencies. Unfortunately, too many Americans do not know the warning 
signs of a heart attack. They include uncomfortable pressure, fullness, 
squeezing or pain in the center of the chest lasting more than a few 
minutes; pain spreading to the shoulder, arm or neck; and chest 
discomfort with lightheadedness, fainting, sweating, nausea or 
shortness of breath. If a friend or family member is exhibiting these 
symptoms, you can assist them by recognizing these signs, being 
prepared to call 9-1-1, and administering CPR if needed. Just knowing 
these signs can save your life or the life of someone you care about.
  I urge each of us to dedicate ourselves to learning more about heart 
disease, how to prevent it, how to recognize it, and what to do if you 
suspect that someone is having a problem. In the meantime, Congress 
must continue its strong commitment to the National Institutes of 
Health so researchers have the tools necessary to find new ways to 
treat and cure this devastating disease.

                          ____________________