Body
WHEREAS, diseases of the heart are the nation's leading cause of death and stroke is the third leading cause of death; and
WHEREAS, among women, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death. Heart attack, stroke and other such diseases claim the lives of more than half a million women each year-more than the next seven causes of death combined, and nearly twice as many as all forms of cancer including breast cancer; and
WHEREAS statistics state that in the United States, one in five females have some form of cardiovascular disease and 63 percent of women who died suddenly of coronary heart disease had no previous symptoms of this disease; and
WHEREAS, the cost of cardiovascular diseases and stroke in the US is estimated at $352 billion; and
WHEREAS, on February 6, 2004, the American Heart Association is launching a new campaign, Go Red for Women, to encourage women to pay attention to their hearts and help them live longer, stronger lives by reducing their risk for cardiovascular disease. By increasing awareness of the risk factors for this devastating disease and taking actions to reduce them, we can save thousands of lives each year; and
WHEREAS, all citizens are urged wear red on February 6, 2004 in recognition of family, friends and neighbors who have suffered from heart disease, and as a show of support to fight it.
Title
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh commends the American Heart Association for their work and dedication to the ongoing fight against heart disease and stroke.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that February 6, 2004 be hereby declared "WEAR RED FOR WOMEN DAY" in the City of Pittsburgh.