[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 113 (Thursday, July 10, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1437]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    GREATER LAKE HOUSTON HEART WALK

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                              HON. TED POE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 10, 2008

  Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, On June 30th Texans from the greater lake 
Houston area joined together to participate in The American Heart 
Association's Greater Lake Houston Heart Walk. The number one and 
number three killers of Americans Heart disease and stroke do not 
discriminate against age, race, or gender.
  By raising awareness, encouraging physical activity, and involving 
the community, participants are empowered with life altering 
information. Through initiatives like the greater lake Houston walk, 
the American Heart Association's goal is to not only encourage physical 
exercise but to also educate the community about circulatory diseases. 
According to the census bureau, in 2005 over 36,000,000 people reported 
being diagnosed with either Heart Disease or Stroke.
  Participants in the American Heart Association Walks can learn about 
why it is important to stay healthy, and at the same time contribute to 
research, advocacy, and public education. Donations raised through 
sponsorships and citizens alike have allowed the American Heart 
Association to continue its mission since 1924. In the years 2005-2006 
they invested more than $543 million in the fight against heart disease 
and stroke.
  Perhaps one of the most important means of Heart Disease and Stroke 
prevention is the regular maintenance of a healthy lifestyle. This 
measure is especially connected to regular physical exercise as many 
risk factors are all interrelated to a lack thereof. These include 
inactivity, excess weight, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
  Through educating Americans of risk factors, symptoms, and prevention 
the hope is to reduce instances of heart disease and stroke 25 percent 
by 2010. Community involvement in the Greater Lake Houston Heart Walk 
and others like it encourages others to also become aware of the number 
one and number 3 killers of Americans. From heart healthy eating to 
physical activity, learning the means of prevention and passing them 
along, is the key to these walks' successes.

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