February is Heart Month in Canada, an initiative inspired by a fundraising event, “Heart Sunday”, in the 1950s and has since spread across the country.

Heart Month aims to make us aware of the fact that heart disease and stroke cause 1 in 3 deaths every year, and that there are lifestyle strategies we can all adapt into our lives to avoid being vulnerable to these deadly diseases before our time. Heart Month also features a fundraising drive with donations supporting the acceleration of research into the causes and prevention of these illnesses.

More individuals with risk factors for heart disease and stroke are identified in Canada each year. Higher rates of obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and an increase of diabetes are placing diverse populations at  increased risk and affecting the health of future generations.

Consider volunteering three hours of your time this February and help to raise money and awareness in your own community. As a Heart and Stroke Foundation canvasser, you’ll be talking to your neighbours about the importance of supporting the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s research. Get more information about volunteering and living a healthier lifestyle by visiting the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s website.

Read more on heart day:

• What is world heart day

• February is heart month