Sen. Floyd helps promote heart health in February

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Kay Floyd, D-Oklahoma City, is partnering with the organization Women in Government to help raise awareness about American Heart Month.  The goal is to educate the public about the dangers of heart disease and the importance of healthy habits that can reduce the risk.  Floyd has recorded a public service announcement (PSA) promoting American Heart Month that will air on Oklahoma radio stations throughout February. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death in Oklahoma, and the state ranks first nationwide for heart disease death.

“Valentine’s Day falls in February, so it’s a perfect time to remind everyone about heart health, and the tremendous risk heart disease can pose,” Floyd said. “More than 600,000 Americans die from heart disease every year, and women, rural Americans, and racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately impacted by this disease. By raising awareness, we can help save lives.”

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking increase the risk of heart disease.  Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help reduce your risk, and medication can help control high blood pressure or high cholesterol that might otherwise lead to a heart attack or stroke. 

Floyd said the risks and signs for heart attacks can be different for women than those experienced by men.

“Both men and women may suffer chest pain or pressure,  but women may have pain in their back, arm, neck or shoulder.  They may suffer from nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath,” Floyd said. “And here’s a little-known fact – women under the age of 50 are twice as likely to die of a heart attack as men in the same age group.  For men and women, knowing the risks, the symptoms and how to keep your heart healthy in the first place is essential.”

You can listen to Floyd’s PSA about American Heart Month here.

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Contact: Democratic Leader Kay Floyd
Capitol: (405) 521-5610
Kay.Floyd@oksenate.gov