After completing my first as your representative in the California Senate, I can tell you that many vital issues facing our state have been confronted, yet nothing was more important than the health and well-being of our citizens.
That”s why I want to draw your attention to an important occasion: February has been designated as American Heart Month.
It”s important because of one grim statistic: Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. It”s shocking to note that one American will die just about every single second during 2008 from a heart disease-related event. It is especially important to be aware that women account for more than half of the deaths resulting from heart disease.
Heart disease is not just a problem for older people. It is the third leading cause of death among women aged 25-44, and the second leading cause of death among women aged 45-64.
In Sacramento, I have consistently supported legislation that deals with the underlying causes of heart disease.
Diet and nutrition are vital elements of preventive health care. That”s why I voted to require chain restaurants to display basic nutritional information about menu items so customers can see exactly what they are eating. Unfortunately, it was vetoed by the Governor. However, he did sign a bill that prohibits schools from serving food containing artificial trans fats to young people.
And it is also why I support efforts to make quality, affordable health care available to all Californians ? not just for the purposes of treating diseases, but for preventing them as well.
Increased physical activity is also an essential element of preventing heart disease. I supported a bill to require minimum standards of physical fitness activities in our schools: At least 20 minutes a day for 1st through 6th graders and 40 minutes for 7th through 12th graders.
This should be of immediate concern to every Californian. Despite our reputation for healthy living and healthy eating, the state is just slightly better than the national average in deaths resulting from heart disease among those aged 35 years old and up. That”s not good enough. I want us to be at the bottom of that death list.
However, nothing I do in Sacramento is as important as what you do to protect yourself and your loved ones. Even little things will have an impact. For instance, when possible, take stairs instead of elevators. Park further away when shopping and walk the extra difference. Small steps like these can make a big difference.
Second, it”s important to be aware of diet and nutrition. Cutting back on foods that are high in saturated fats, cholesterol and added sugars and salt will help protect your heart.
The key risk factors associated with heart disease are blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, tobacco and secondhand smoke. Be aware of their dangers.
Medical experts tell us that heart attacks are not sudden or intense. They start slowly with mild pain or discomfort. Many people wait too long before seeking help. Knowing the signs of a heart attack can save you or a loved one”s life.
The American Heart Association is sponsoring many activities this month and provides information to anyone who wants it. I urge you to take a look at its Web site (www.americanheart.org) or call their office in Santa Rosa, at 542-1992.
Patricia Wiggins represents California”s 2nd Senate District, which includes Lake County as well as portions or all of five other counties: Humboldt, Mendocino, Napa, Solano and Sonoma.
