Hawaii residents encouraged to make healthier heart choices

The American Heart Association (AHA) recognizes February as ‘American Heart Month.’ A time dedicated toward raising awareness about cardiovascular health.

One of AHA’s key initiatives is ‘National Wear Red Day,’ observed on the first Friday of February. The day aims to raise awareness surrounding women’s heart health.

“Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women,” said AHA spokesperson Megan Davidson.

“Nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of cardiovascular disease. CVD is also the leading cause of maternal death in the U.S. Or more simply put, heart disease is the number one killer of new moms,” Davidson said.

In infants, cardiac arrest accounts for 10% to 15% of unexpected deaths.

The Queen’s Health System has long stood with the American Heart Association to promote cardiovascular health and encourages Hawaii residents to make healthier life choices.

AHA sites that Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander adults have the second-highest cardiovascular death rate in the U.S.

The AHA therefore encourages Hawaii families to learn CPR, which can be done through joining the ‘Nation of Lifesavers.’

According to AHA, more than 350,000 people across the U.S. experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital each year. Over 23,000 of those incidents occur in children.

Cardiac arrest outside hospitals most often occurs in residences (73.4%), public settings (16.3%), and nursing homes (10.3%).

If administered immediately, CPR can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival.

For Hawaii residents, the Kauai Fire Department recently launched a potentially lifesaving app ‘PulsePoint Respond,’ in recognition of American Heart Month.

The app alerts nearby CPR and AED trained users who are willing to intervene in cardiac emergencies before first responders arrive.

Jason Chang, President and CEO of The Queen’s Health Systems, is chairperson for the 2025 Hawaii Heart Ball hosted by AHA.

“The Heart Ball is a year-round initiative to fight against heart disease and stroke, the first and third causes of death in Hawaii,” Chang said.

This year’s ball will take place Feb. 22, at the Alohilani Resort in Waikiki.