The Future of Cardiovascular Disorder Treatment: Stem Cell Research

American Heart Association (AHA) Policy

The American Heart Association funds meritorious research involving human adult stem cells as part of our scientific research grant program. We do not fund any research involving stem cells derived from human embryos or fetal tissue.
The American Heart Association recognizes the value of all types of stem cell research and supports federal funding of this research. We are committed to supporting medical and scientific research to help us pursue our mission of reducing death and disability from cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

To stay abreast of the benefits and challenges in the area of human stem cell research the American Heart Association Research Committee annually monitors scientific activity in the area and periodically assesses current scientific opinion on the potential impact of embryonic and adult stem cell research on CVD [cardiovascular disease] and stroke.

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(7) Preventing Disease and Regaining Cardiovascular Health

The Importance of a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese increases your risk for many diseases and conditions. The more you weigh, the more likely you are to suffer from heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, gallbladder disease, sleep apnea, and certain cancers. On the other hand, a healthy weight has many benefits: It helps you to lower your risk for developing these problems, helps you to feel good about yourself, and gives you more energy to enjoy life.

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Physical Activity and Heart Health

Physical Activity

Physical activity is any body movement that works your muscles and uses more energy than you use when you’re resting. Walking, running, dancing, swimming, yoga, and gardening are examples of physical activity.According to the Department of Health and Human Services’ “2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans,” physical activity generally refers to bodily movement that enhances health. Exercise is a type of physical activity that’s planned and structured. Lifting weights, taking an aerobics class, and playing on a sports team are examples of exercise. Physical activity is good for many parts of your body. This text focuses on the benefits of physical activity for your heart and lungs.

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Nutrition and Cardiovascular Health

What Is Heart-Healthy Eating?

Excerpted from “Heart Healthy Eating,” by the Office of Women’s Health (www.womenshealth.gov), January 1, 2008.

Why do I need to be concerned about heart healthy eating?

      What you eat affects your risk for having heart disease and poor blood circulation, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Heart disease is the number one killer and stroke is the number three killer of American women and men.

In the main type of heart disease, a fatty substance called plaque builds up in the arteries that bring oxygen-rich blood to the heart. Over time, this buildup causes the arteries to narrow and harden. When this happens, the heart does not get all the blood it needs to work properly. The result can be chest pain or a heart attack.

Most cases of stroke occur when a blood vessel bringing blood to the brain becomes blocked. The underlying condition for this type of blockage is having fatty deposits lining the vessel walls.

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