SR-5, As Adopted by Senate, January 25, 2011

            Senator Kahn offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 5.

            A resolution to recognize February 2011 as Heart Health Awareness Month.

            Whereas, Heart disease has been the No. 1 cause of death in Michigan for more than 100 years; and

            Whereas, The most common heart disease in the United States is coronary artery disease which manifests itself as a heart attack; and

            Whereas, In 2009, approximately 785,000 Americans had a first heart attack, and about 470,000 will have a second attack; and

            Whereas, About every 25 seconds, an American will have a heart attack, and about one American will pass away from one. Compared to national death rates, 39 Michigan counties are above the national death rate for heart disease; and

            Whereas, The chance of developing coronary artery disease can be reduced by taking steps to prevent and control the factors that put people at greater risk. Additionally, knowing the signs and symptoms of a heart attack--including uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, pain in the chest or upper body, and shortness of breath--is crucial to the most positive outcome after having a heart attack; and

            Whereas, Although risk factors for heart disease such as age, family health history, and race cannot be avoided, other risk factors such as cigarette smoking, inactivity, and obesity are completely manageable; and

            Whereas, Preventing heart disease by adopting a healthy lifestyle, as well as recognizing the symptoms of heart disease, can save lives; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That in recognition of the importance of the ongoing fight against heart disease, we do hereby proclaim February 2011 as Heart Health Awareness Month in Michigan. We encourage all citizens to help educate and support family, friends, and neighbors who have been diagnosed with heart disease as a show of support to fight this deadly disease. By increasing awareness of the risk factors for this devastating disease and taking actions to reduce them, we can save thousands of lives each year; and be it further

            Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the Michigan Department of Community Health.