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Pioneering cardiovascular geneticist honored with 2026 Population Research Prize

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Leading cardiovascular geneticist, Pradeep Natarajan, M.D., M.M.Sc., FAHA, received the 2026 Population Research Prize from the American Heart Association during the Presidential Session at the 99th Annual Scientific Sessions. Dr. Natarajan is internationally recognized for using human genetics and data from large, diverse populations to transform the understanding and prevention of cardiovascular disease. His research … Read more

Dr. Jennifer Lawton of University of Maryland honored with the 2026 Basic Research Prize

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Dr. Jennifer Lawton headshot

For patients undergoing complex cardiac surgery, protecting the heart and brain can be just as important as repairing the heart itself. For decades, Dr. Jennifer S. Lawton has been working to better understand how to do just that. Her pioneering research into heart and brain protection during cardiac surgery has earned her the American Heart … Read more

Dr. Lawrence J. Appel honored for decades of heart health research with 2026 Research Achievement Award

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Dr. Lawrence J Appel headshot

For decades, Dr. Lawrence J. Appel has helped change the way we understand one of the most powerful tools for managing blood pressure: the food we eat. This year, the internationally recognized nutrition and hypertension researcher received the American Heart Association’s 2026 Research Achievement Award, recognizing a career of research that has helped turn nutrition … Read more

STEM Goes Red 2025 Inspires the Next Generation of Women Leaders in Philadelphia

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images of STEM event

More than 100 young women from the School District of Philadelphia came together for a powerful day of inspiration, mentorship, and hands-on learning at STEM Goes Red 2025, hosted at the Perelman School of Medicine at Penn Medicine. Designed to spark curiosity and confidence, STEM Goes Red connects students with real-world experiences in science, technology, … Read more

Laura Smith and Tim Brightbill return as co-chairs for 36th annual Lawyers Have Heart

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two headshots with the lawyers have heart logo

The longtime event volunteers return for the second year as co-chairs, where they will unite the DC-area legal community to power the annual 10K, 5K and Fun Walk  Laura Smith, partner at HKA, and Tim Brightbill, partner at Wiley, will return as co-chairs for the 36th annual Lawyers Have Heart, an annual 10K, 5K and Fun Walk that brings together thousands of runners and walkers … Read more

Two Greater Washington Region locals named Go Red for Women national ambassadors

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a group of women wearing red

WASHINGTON, D.C., February 1, 2026 – Cardiovascular disease remains the No. 1 killer of women and new moms, with more than 45% of adult women living with some form of heart disease. Women remain underrepresented in clinical research trials.  Twelve women from across the country have been selected to represent the American Heart Association’s nationwide Go Red for Women movement in 2026. Among them are Erin Adelekun, an … Read more

After surviving a stroke at 18, Lauren Treacy set a goal to run a marathon

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people at a race

As a college freshman in 2020, Lauren Treacy was getting her first taste of independence. She was home for the holidays after her first semester at Penn State where she met some of her closest friends, took her initial courses toward her degree, went running every day and was gearing up to rush a sorority. December 29, 2020, started as a normal day. Lauren and some friends … Read more

Lace up your sneakers and join us for National Walking Day 2026!

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a group of people with a WALK sign in front

American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region and Sheehy Auto Stores invite you to George Mason University for a day of fitness and fun  National Walking Day returns on April 1, 2026, with celebrations across the country around this simple act to improve physical and mental health. In the Greater Washington Region, supporters are invited to join the … Read more

After undergoing a triple bypass surgery, Richard Martin has an important message for other men: pay attention to your heart

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a woman, man and dog on stage

Richard Martin walked in the 2024 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk to get out in the community and join his wife and her colleagues at VHC Health in supporting an important cause. When he returned in 2025, the mission behind the event was much more personal. Richard is a father of four, a grandfather, a golfer and a decades-long sales and marketing professional from Northern Virginia. In recent years, there had been early rumblings that something might … Read more

American Heart Association helps Cannon Road Elementary become the first Montgomery County Public School to establish a Healthy Pantry Policy

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canned foods on a shelf

For many families, access to healthy food is not just about preference. It is about availability, affordability and awareness. When nutritious options are easier to find and understand, families are better equipped to make choices that support long-term health. That belief is at the heart of the work led by the American Heart Association and recently took … Read more

National Walking Day kicked off Move More Month in the DMV and beyond

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two women posing in front of National Walking Day banner

The American Heart Association and Sheehy Auto Stores hosted a National Walking Day event at George Mason University, convening guests from across the region for a day of fitness, learning and fun.  Participants warmed up and stretched with trainers from George Mason University, practiced yoga and tabata with instructors from The St. James, learned CPR from the American Heart Association, mixed up a healthy snack with nutritionists … Read more

Turning Leadership into Legacy: Bill McLaughlin

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McLaughlin (right) and his business partner, Joe Waleck (left)

Bill McLaughlin launches the Heart of New York City and Thrive’s Listen to Your Heart and Thrive campaign by sharing how he’s stepping up to shape a future for his children, New York City, and beyond. When asked what he wanted his legacy to be, Bill McLaughlin answered instantly, “To be a great Dad.” From stepping up … Read more

Resilience of the Heart: Sharron’s Story

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Kristina (right), and her sister, Sharron (left)

Written by Kristina O’Connell, Chief Marketing Officer, Thrive Sharron was a strong, young athlete. She noticed that her heartbeat would sometimes become irregular, but life moved forward, and so did Sharron. Years passed, and after two decades of trying to have a child, Sharron was dealing with another health challenge: a climbing blood pressure, in … Read more

Communications executive leads year-round campaign to improve health in Greater Boston

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Christine (Lindenboom) Akinc headshot

Christine (Lindenboom) Akinc named 2026 American Heart Association Heart of Boston chair As the volunteer chair of the American Heart Association’s Heart of Boston campaign, Christine (Lindenboom) Akinc, chief corporate communications officer at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, will lead community-wide efforts to help ensure every individual in Greater Boston has the opportunity for a full, healthy life. … Read more

Local hospital executive to lead 2026 Boston Heart Walk and citywide push for CPR readiness

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Lisa Abbott headshot

Lisa Abbott to chair American Heart Association’s largest community fundraising campaign in Greater Boston The American Heart Association today announced that Lisa Abbott, executive vice president and chief human resources officer at Boston Children’s Hospital, will serve as chair of the 2026 Boston Heart Walk, leading a year-round effort to raise lifesaving funds and expand … Read more

GBH show spotlights efforts to expand CPR and AED access in Massachusetts

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Under the radar GBH news

The American Heart Association’s push to expand CPR education and improve access to lifesaving AEDs across Massachusetts was in the spotlight recently on Under the Radar with Callie Crossley, GBH’s weekly radio show and podcast focused on issues shaping life in Massachusetts. Listen to the segment here. American Heart Association volunteer and Mass General Brigham cardiologist … Read more

Boston TV spot highlights effort to teach CPR and save lives during American Heart Month

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The American Heart Association’s mission to build a Nation of Lifesavers through CPR education is reaching living rooms across Massachusetts this month, thanks to a new public service announcement airing throughout February on WCVB Channel 5 Boston. The television spot — running during American Heart Month — features Jessica Brown, WCVB’s NewsCenter 5 anchor, medical … Read more

Massachusetts student EMT calls for CPR training requirement in new Op-Ed

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American Heart Association volunteer advocate Nayan Sapers (left) poses with U.S. Rep. Gabe Amo, of Rhode Island, during a recent visit to Washington, D.C.

An American Heart Association volunteer is helping shine a light on a major gap in lifesaving education across Massachusetts and making the case for why every high school student should graduate knowing CPR.  Nayan Sapers, a senior at Harvard University and an EMT with Harvard’s Emergency Medical Services, has been working with the American Heart … Read more

WBZ NewsRadio covers Go Red for Women gathering at Massachusetts State House

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Massachusetts lawmakers gather on the Grand Staircase at the State House in Boston

The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women gathering at the Massachusetts State House reached audiences beyond Beacon Hill thanks to coverage from WBZ NewsRadio 1030, helping elevate awareness that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in women. The annual event, held of February 26, brought together members of the Massachusetts Caucus of … Read more

American Heart Association shares CPR, heart health message on Boston Bruins pregame show

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Before Thursday night’s 4–2 Bruins win over the Columbus Blue Jackets, the American Heart Association shared an important message with NESN viewers: learning CPR can save lives. Dr. Jennifer Cluett, the president of the American Heart Association’s Board of Directors in Boston, joined NESN’s Sophia Jurksztowicz to discuss Hands-Only CPR, high blood pressure control, and … Read more

New Hampshire women join nationwide effort to combat No. 1 killer

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a group of women wearing red

The American Heart Association’s® Woman of Impact™ nominees champion heart health through Go Red for Women® fundraising and philanthropy initiative Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the No. 1 killer of women.[1] Launched over two decades ago to increase women’s heart health awareness and address clinical care gaps, the Go Red for Women movement serves as a catalyst … Read more

American Heart Association urges Mainers to go red this Friday, Feb. 6th for National Wear Red Day

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Maine survivors Dwyer Vessey, Jordan Shiers and Annette Siler.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death for women in the United States.[1] On Friday, February 6, National Wear Red Day®, people and landmarks across the nation will “go red” to raise awareness of women’s No. 1 killer.  The American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, is … Read more

The American Heart Association urges Granite Staters to get involved during American Heart Month

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three women posing in red dresses

National Wear Red Day is 2/6 and the NH Go Red for Women Luncheon is 2/12 in Concord. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death for women in the United States.[1] On Friday, February 6, National Wear Red Day®, people and landmarks across the nation will “go red” to raise awareness of women’s No. 1 killer.   … Read more

Portland-area high school girls explore careers at Maine STEM Goes Red event

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Jess Dubois of Boston Scientific Cardiology presents to students

American Heart Association’s  STEM Goes Red, part of its Go Red for Women® movement, introduces students to careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and connects students with female industry leaders Today’s economy and tomorrow’s well-being depend on innovations in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), but a troubling gap exists when it comes … Read more

Beyond Books: NH Library Launches Blood Pressure Monitor Lending to Support Community Wellness

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a person holding a blood pressure cuff

By Sam Milnes, adult services librarian, Howe Library, Hanover, NH As an adult services librarian, I’m always seeking ways our library can better support the people who walk through our doors. Libraries have evolved considerably in the last ten years, and many patrons are surprised to see how we have adapted to meet their needs … Read more

Here’s your wake-up call: Daylight saving time may impact your heart health

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alarm clock

As much of the nation prepares to “spring forward,” a New Hampshire cardiologist cites scientific research that indicates the spring time change may negatively impact your heart and brain health Losing an extra hour of sleep may not be the worst thing that could happen when you “spring forward” at the start of daylight saving time. According … Read more

Here’s your wake-up call: Daylight saving time may impact your heart health

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red alarm clock

As much of the nation prepares to “spring forward,” the American Heart Association cites scientific research that indicates the spring time change may negatively impact your heart and brain health Losing an extra hour of sleep may not be the worst thing that could happen when you “spring forward” at the start of daylight saving time. According … Read more

Local attorney leads year-round campaign to improve health in New Hampshire

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Eleanor W. Dahar headshot

Eleanor Wm. Dahar named 2026 Heart of New Hampshire Chair Through the American Heart Association’s Heart of New Hampshire campaign, Eleanor Wm. Dahar, volunteer chair and an attorney with Victor W. Dahar, P.A., will lead community-wide efforts to help ensure every individual in New Hampshire has the opportunity for a full, healthy life. Heart of New … Read more

American Heart Association celebrates Crystal Heart Award recipient Linda Varrell and debuts heart-healthy pop-up experience

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Kathleen Jordan headshot

Maine’s 19th annual Go Red for Women Luncheon is March 19 in Portland  Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death for women in Maine and across the United States. Despite the threat of CVD, less than half of women are aware of its risk. The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement empowers women to take charge of their heart health, while addressing critical gaps in research, education and … Read more

Governor Ayotte and the American Heart Association in New Hampshire celebrate National Walking Day on April 1

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group walking with governor ayotte

Latest statistics show stress and lack of physical activity are rising, putting heart health at risk As people across the nation navigate higher levels of stress and spend more of their day sitting, finding time to move can feel challenging. Less than half of adults and fewer than one in five children in the U.S. … Read more

‘Red Means Go’ for Buffalo women’s heart health

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Attendees at the Buffalo Go Red luncheon

The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement raises awareness and critical funds for women’s cardiovascular health Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women[1], yet less than half of women are aware of this. The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, is changing … Read more

Local bank Regional President to lead 2026 Heart Walk and statewide push for CPR readiness

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Werme joins the American Heart Association in engaging companies in Vermont to create a community of lifesavers According to the American Heart Association, 9 in 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside of the hospital die, and more than half don’t receive bystander CPR. CPR — especially if performed immediately — can double or triple … Read more

Buffalo-area high school girls explore careers in STEM fields on National Wear Red Day®

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Two people practicing CPR

American Heart Association’s Buffalo STEM Goes Red™, part of its Go Red for Women® movement, introduces students to careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and connects students with female industry leaders Today’s economy and tomorrow’s well-being depend on innovations in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), but a troubling gap exists when it … Read more

Guest Blog: Paid Leave Is a Lifeline for Heart Patients and Families

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A mom and daughter smiling

Haley Rockwood’s firsthand look at how universal paid leave can protect workers, strengthen families, and support healthier communities. Written by Haley Rockwood A fourth open-heart surgery is a monumental hill to climb—and without paid leave, it nearly broke my family. I was born with a congenital heart defect. In January 2023, I faced my fourth … Read more

Strengthening Heart Health in Bethlehem’s Hispanic Community: How Two Refrigerators Are Making a Big Difference

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Ribbon cutting at Hispanic Center

As a longstanding leader in advancing cardiovascular health, the American Heart Association continues to champion efforts that make healthy choices accessible for all families; especially in communities where the burden of heart disease is greatest. Initiatives such as the Hispanic Center’s enhanced ability to store greater quantities of fresh produce and nutritious foods align directly with … Read more

Boston University’s Dr. Emelia Benjamin to be Honored for Mentorship Legacy with Eugene Braunwald Award

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Emelia J. Benjamin, M.D., Sc.M., FAHA, professor of medicine at Boston University (BU). copyright Boston Medical Center

Dr. Emelia Benjamin receives mentorship honor at the 2025 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions Dr. Emelia J. Benjamin, a distinguished professor of medicine and epidemiology at Boston University, will be honored with the 2025 Eugene Braunwald Academic Mentorship Award at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions in New Orleans this November. Named after legendary cardiologist … Read more

Join Us at the Inaugural Rural Health Summit!

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dirt road in rural america

Imagine living in a town without a doctor or being 200 miles away from the nearest hospital. For one in five people in the U.S., including 5.7 million residents of rural communities throughout the Eastern States, this is a reality. Rural areas face significant health care challenges. On average, people in these communities live almost … Read more

The Centennial Experience at Scientific Sessions

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Centennial experience sign

The American Heart Associated celebrated its 100th birthday in a fun, interactive way at 2024 Scientific Sessions.  The Centennial Experience, a new exhibit for Scientific Sessions at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, IL, sits in a prominent spot right outside registration and the Main Event theater. The exhibit was a museum of American … Read more

AHA President Calls for Action to Improve Heart Health in the Second Century of the American Heart Association

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How can you help? AHA president asks “My arrival in this world was a surprise,” American Heart Association President Keith Churchwell, M.D., FAHA, began his delivery of the Lewis A. Connor Lecture during the Presidential Session on the second day of Scientific Sessions in Chicago. “With no ultrasound available, my parents were only expecting a … Read more

Celebrating a century of cardiovascular science: Insights from the 2024 Scientific Sessions Opening Session

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Dr. Keith Churchwell at Opening Session

Highlights from the past and hope for the future were both on display at the 2024 Scientific Sessions Opening Session as the American Heart Association marked its 100th birthday by celebrating a century of innovation. The Opening Session, held in the Main Event Theater I in the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, IL, kicked … Read more

Heart Healthy Hunting – Paul Murphy’s Story of Surviving a Heart Attack on the Trail

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As part of the 2024 Heart Healthy Hunting campaign, Paul Murphy, Vice President/General Manager of InMotion US (Blacksburg, VA), shares his story of surviving a heart attack while hunting with his brother. In November 2016, as they always did together, Paul and his brother Jim went out hunting the day after Thanksgiving. While on the … Read more

Pediatric cardiologist to lead virtual walk to support heart health in the Lehigh Valley

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The American Heart Association recently announced Dr. Louis W. Hansrote, medical director at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Cardiac Center in Allentown and chief of pediatric cardiology at Reilley’s Children’s Hospital of the Lehigh Valley, will serve as chairperson of the 2020 Lehigh Valley Heart Walk scheduled as a month-long virtual experience from September 1-30. With … Read more

Bethlehem students learn to grow with new school garden

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Lehigh Valley Community Garden

The American Heart Association Lehigh Valley board of directors recently teamed up with the Kellyn Foundation to install raised garden beds at Lincoln Elementary School in Bethlehem, PA. As part of the Garden as a Classroom program, Kellyn facilitates the building of raised bed gardens and ongoing hands-on healthy lifestyle curriculum to provide educational concepts … Read more