Amgen recently launched its new campaign, Breakaway from Heart Disease, with Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana, to encourage people to make healthier lifestyle choices.
"Being a lifelong athlete, I was surprised when my doctor diagnosed me with high cholesterol and high blood pressure, which are risk factors for heart disease," Montana said. "Heart disease was admittedly never top of mind for me, but after learning that my family history can influence the future health of my own family, I joined Amgen for Breakaway from Heart Disease. I want to motivate others to get active and let them know that they, too, can work to reduce the risk of heart disease for their families."
The American Heart Association (AHA) and Schwinn, the bicycle company, have also joined the campaign to encourage people to exercise with bicycling. Making exercise a regular priority will help Americans develop healthier hearts.
"With more than 40 percent of U.S. adults projected to have some form of cardiovascular disease by 2030, heart disease continues to be a critical health concern for Americans," Raymond Jordan, senior vice president of corporate affairs at Amgen, said. "By joining leading organizations in a shared commitment, Breakaway from Heart Disease aims to encourage everyone to learn more about their family history of heart disease and get active through activities, such as cycling."
Another key to maintaining heart health is learning one's family history. This can make it easier to pinpoint potential health weaknesses, but, ultimately, healthy lifestyle choices make the biggest difference when it comes to heart health.
"While heart disease can run in your family, it is largely preventable through education, simple lifestyle changes and action," Suzanne Steinbaum, spokesperson for the American Heart Association, said. "That's why American Heart Association's CycleNation is excited to join Breakaway from Heart Disease to provide Americans with critical tools and information to help break the cycle of heart disease and, hopefully, improve their cardiovascular health 20 percent by 2020."
