[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 29 (Wednesday, February 12, 2020)]
[House]
[Page H1113]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               RAISING AWARENESS OF AMERICAN HEART MONTH

  (Mr. SPANO asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. SPANO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to draw attention to American 
Heart Month, a topic that is extremely important yet also personal to 
me.
  Almost 10 years ago, I was diagnosed with severe three-vessel 
coronary artery disease, and I have since had 13 stents placed in my 
heart. So while this is deeply personal to share, I also recognize the 
unique position that I have been given to raise awareness about 
cardiovascular health.
  Half of all Americans have at least one key risk factor: high blood 
pressure, high cholesterol, or history of smoking. By changing our 
diets, avoiding nicotine products, and exercising, roughly 83 percent 
of premature deaths from heart disease can be avoided.
  Along with annual checkups and prescribed medicines, I urge all to 
remain alert to the symptoms of heart problems, including shortness of 
breath, heart palpitations, or numbness in the arms.
  Heart disease is currently the world's leading cause of death, 
claiming 17.9 million lives annually, yet it doesn't have to be.
  With modern medicine, and by the grace of God, I am here today. So I 
urge everyone to take control of their heart health before it is too 
late.

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