The American Heart Association, in partnership with the NFL Alumni Association, is launching a campaign during Men’s Health Week to emphasize the importance of heart health among men. The initiative focuses on Life’s Essential 8™, a set of guidelines designed to prevent heart disease and stroke, which are leading causes of death and disability in the U.S. The campaign features former NFL players who each represent one of the eight essential health measures, aiming to educate and inspire men to take proactive steps towards improving their heart health.
Life’s Essential 8 includes managing weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, eating a healthy diet, engaging in physical activity, avoiding smoking, and ensuring adequate sleep. These measures are divided into health behaviors and health factors, with research showing that adherence can lead to a longer, healthier life free of chronic diseases. The campaign leverages the influence of former NFL players to reach a broad audience, including retired athletes and the general public, highlighting the simplicity and effectiveness of these health measures.
Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, and Brad Edwards, CEO of NFL Alumni, emphasized the importance of this collaboration in promoting heart health. The public service announcements will be shared across social media platforms, aiming to meet individuals where they are and encourage them to take control of their health. This initiative represents a significant step in addressing the critical issue of heart disease and stroke among men, leveraging the platform of former athletes to spread a vital health message.
