| Featured Research Heart Disease Risk Factors and Lifetime Risk of Cardiovascular Events Heart disease is the #1 killer of both women and men in the United States. Thanks to decades of research supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), we now understand the key risk factors for heart disease. While some risk factors can't be controlled, most can be controlled. These include high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, smoking, and diabetes. In a new study that represents one of the largest-ever analyses of lifetime risks for cardiovascular disease (CVD), researchers found that middle-aged adults who have one or more elevated traditional risk factors for CVD have a substantially greater chance of having a major cardiovascular event—such as heart attack or stroke—during their lifetimes than people with optimal risk factor profiles. The findings underscore that prevention and control of CVD through management of modifiable risk factors is a lifetime opportunity and responsibility. Health professionals can help individuals understand that it's never too early to be aware of their risk factors, and it's also never too late to reduce their risk for CVD. Learn about the research and get tips for your clinical setting. New! Heart Attack Resources These new NHLBI materials highlight the signs and symptoms of a heart attack and emphasize the importance of immediately taking action by calling 9–1–1. Heart Attack: Know the Symptoms. Take Action. Wallet Card (shown)
This pocket-sized card provides a list of heart attack warning symptoms, steps to take if symptoms occur, and a place to record important information. Don't Take a Chance With a Heart Attack: Know the Facts and Act Fast
An easy-to-read 4-page fact sheet about heart attacks and emergency planning. Learn What a Heart Attack Feels Like—It Could Save Your Life
This fact sheet provides clear illustrations of common heart attack warning signs and tells people what to do if they are having any of the signs. News and Events The Director's Corner: The NHLBI celebrates National Wear Red Day® 2012
Here on the National Institutes of Health (NIH) campus, we held the first National Wear Red Day "flash mob." Led by passionate staff members, we gathered in the NIH Clinical Center to send a thank-you message to the incredible teams—scientists, doctors, nurses, clinical trial participants, educators, volunteers, and many others across the country—who are working to advance heart disease research and clinical care. The Heart Truth® Professional Education Program: Earn Free CME Credits
Heart disease is the #1 killer of women, but it is largely preventable. Over the past decade, the NHLBI has partnered with the Office on Women's Health to educate health professionals on heart disease in women through The Heart Truth Professional Education Program. Free continuing medical education (CME) credits from Medscape were offered with new modules, updated to reflect the latest evidence-based guidelines released by the American Heart Association. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) Annual Meeting, March 2–6, Orlando, Florida. American College of Cardiology (ACC)Annual Scientific Session & Expo, March 24–27, Chicago, Illinois. | 