Stepping into 2026, American Heart Month begins on February 1, at which time people across the country raise awareness and encourage Americans to take time to think about and protect their heart health.

   According to the American College of Cardiology, “American Heart Month was established by President Lyndon B. Johnson under Presidential Proclamation 3566 in December 1963.” Because heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US, American heart health has become a very important topic (acc.org).

   Originally, according to the American Heart Association, people with heart disease “…were thought to be doomed to complete bed rest — or destined to imminent death.” Thankfully, a group of pioneering physicians and social workers studied heart disease and shared that there are many other ways to promote heart health. “They conducted studies to learn more about heart disease, America’s No. 1 killer” (heart.org).

   Since American Heart Month was created, people all over America have found ways to help and spread awareness regarding heart disease. According to the American Red Cross, “Each year, this is a time to spotlight heart disease, by bringing awareness and sharing how to take steps to prevent this deadly disease” (redcross.org).

   One way people can easily spread awareness is by participating in National Wear Red Day which takes place on February 6. To participate, all you have to do is wear any red article of clothing. According to Northwestern Medicine, “Organized by Go Red for Women, the effort and your outfit can start conversations about heart disease, particularly as it affects women, who may be less aware of their risks” (nm.org).

   In addition to participating in national holidays, there are multiple ways that people can do even more to spread awareness. According to the American Heart Association, “Our corporate volunteer activities are designed to drive equitable health impact in our communities” (heart.org).

   Many people have disregarded heart health and have forgotten what the month of February represents. To avoid this, people can also spread the word through social media. According to the CDC, you can post on social media using hashtags such as “#HeartMonth” (cdc.gov).

   Speaking and learning about heart disease can make an impact. According to the American Red Cross, “Raising awareness is essential not only in the month of February but also year-round. It’s the awareness that can ultimately save a life” (redcross.org).

   It has been discovered that heart disease dates back at least to 1580 and 1550 B.C.E. According to Baystate Health, “A build up of plaque in the arteries that can cause a heart attack – was [found] in an Egyptian princess…. The study found that heart disease was more common in ancient times than previously thought” (baystatehealth.org).

   Now, heart health is seen as something everyone should look out for. Though adults have much higher risks of getting heart disease, it is important that everyone maintain their heart health. Freshman Nahlee Tran, a BioMed student, said, “…to maintain a healthy heart, you should exercise regularly while maintaining a healthy diet.”

   According to The American Heart Association, “No matter your age, everyone can benefit from a healthy diet and adequate physical activity.” Spreading awareness during February Heart Month is crucial as it encourages people of all ages to become educated on the importance of their heart health (heart.org).