March 20, 1996
(Health)

Heart Health Awareness Campaign launched

Although Newfoundland has a higher death rate from heart disease and stroke than the Canadian average, there are many things individuals, families and communities can do to reduce their risk of heart disease. The Newfoundland and Labrador Heart Health Program has launched an awareness campaign to encourage people to initiate some lifestyle changes and to become involved in heart healthy activities in our communities.

Television ads which outline the extent of the problem and which offer realistic solutions will run on both NTV and CBC television for a seven week period. Viewers are encouraged to participate in heart health activities offered through Regional Heart Health Networks throughout the province.

Heart Health activities focus on healthy eating, active living and choosing not to smoke. Newfoundland data show that more than two-thirds of residents have one or more of the major risk factors of heart disease such as high blood pressure, smoking and elevated blood cholesterol. By choosing not to smoke, eating foods low in fat and high in fibre and by leading active lives, the prevalence of heart disease in this province can be greatly reduced.

Heart Health coordinator Eva Laing says this campaign is about more than changing individual behaviours. "We are talking about creating healthy communities and organizing heart health activities in which many of us can become involved. There are programs available, and there are many things that we as individuals, as family members and as community members can do to help us become a healthier society."

Individuals interested in learning more about, or becoming involved in heart health activities, can call 1-800-642-8336 or the local Community Health Office. The Newfoundland and Labrador Heart Health Program is a joint project between the Department of Health and Health Canada.

Contact: Jill Sooley, Director of Public Relations, (709) 729-1377.