Update from MAA Board President, Dr. Wayne Rosamond
Dr. Friends of Heart,
Heart health and healthy lifestyle habits begin in childhood, yet 1 in 3 American kids and teens are overweight or obese. In fact, research shows that more and more children aged 12-15 have arteries similar to those of a 45-year-old. The current generation of kids could be the first in American history to live shorter lives than their parents. The American Heart Association is working to change these trends by helping families live heart-healthy lives with tools and resources that encourage healthier eating and physical activity. The AHA has developed a new kid’s video, Heart Age-Heart Healthy, to encourage parents and caregivers to help make better choices for the children in their lives, starting at an early age. I encourage you to share the video and our Healthier Kids web page with family and friends and help inspire our youth to grow to be healthy, fit grownups.
Several other exciting examples of our mission in action are happening this month. The AHA’s first Simple Cooking with Heart Teaching Kitchen will open this winter in Baltimore. Led by Kitchen Manager Tia Berry, the program will offer hands-on, affordable cooking classes with a focus on preparing healthy meals using fresh, easily available ingredients. Please “like” the facebook page to stay up to date on the Kitchen and receive regular nutrition and cooking tips and resources as well!
The 86th Scientific Sessions will kick-off Nov. 16 – 20 in Dallas, TX and feature researchers from around the world, many hailing from the Mid-Atlantic Affiliate. Be on the lookout for exciting updates throughout the week in local and national media. Visit Scientific Sessions online to learn more about the meeting and the advances in prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease to be presented there.
As we approach the holidays I want to express my personal thanks to all the dedicated AHA volunteers and staff for your hard work in the pursuit of improved health in our communities. As always, let me know if there is anything I can do to help us follow the shared passion that has brought us together.
Sincerely,
Wayne D. Rosamond President, Board of Directors, Mid-Atlantic Affiliate