September 29, 2014
As Minister of Health, I would like to draw your attention to World Heart Day, which takes place on September 29th each year.
World Heart Day serves as an opportunity to both remind us of what we can do to improve our cardiovascular health, and to remember family and friends who have passed away from, or are living with, heart disease and stroke-related health challenges.
Cardiovascular disease is the second-leading cause of death in Canada, claiming more than 66,000 lives annually. While these statistics are sobering, we should be encouraged by the many actions we can take to reduce our chances of cardiovascular disease. For example, we can keep our hearts healthy by avoiding smoking, taking part in regular physical activity, managing stress effectively, choosing healthy nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight.
Preventative measures – such as regular visits to your family physician in order to detect and manage chronic conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes – can also go a long way to keeping your cardiovascular health in check.
The Government of Canada invests heavily in research and initiatives that promote healthy living and chronic disease prevention. Since 2006, we have invested over $300 million for heart and stroke research. The Government also works with the provinces, territories, and relevant stakeholders to address sudden cardiac arrest. For example, the Government is providing $10 million to the Heart and Stroke Foundation to install over 1,500 life-saving Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in recreational arenas across Canada.
As the Government of Canada continues to do its part, I also encourage Canadians to do theirs by making positive lifestyle changes that can make a difference.
Sincerely,
The Honourable Rona Ambrose
Minister of Health
