[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 14 (Thursday, February 14, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E168]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E168]]
                          AMERICAN HEART MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 13, 2002

  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, A few years ago, I learned first-hand 
about the importance of preventative care for cardiovascular disease. 
My wife, Elsie, had a heart attack. It was a very difficult time period 
for her, and for our family. I am pleased to report that she is in good 
health today. And I can still celebrate this holiday with her. 
Unfortunately, not many women are as lucky as my wife. Heart disease is 
the number one killer of American women.
  In fact, cardiovascular diseases kill more females each year than the 
next 9 causes of death combined. The seriousness of this disease 
doesn't stop there. Heart disease is our nation's number one killer and 
leading cause of long-term disability. We need to raise awareness to 
fight this disease. Preventive health care is the key to lowering the 
number of victims of heart disease.
  Risk factors of heart disease are high cholesterol, high blood 
pressure, tobacco, lack of activity, and obesity. The majority of these 
risks can be prevented. And we can only accomplish this through 
education to raise awareness. February is American Heart month. I ask 
my colleagues to take advantage of this to spread awareness about heart 
disease and encourage healthy life styles.

                          ____________________