Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and stroke represent significant public health challenges in Kentucky and across the United States. Despite previous declines, recent trends since the onset of the pandemic have shown a troubling reversal, with projections indicating a substantial increase over the next three decades. By 2050, it’s estimated that up to 45 million U.S. adults will be affected by CVD, while stroke prevalence is expected to double. These estimations underscore the critical need for effective strategies to manage risk factors, particularly obesity, which is anticipated to impact over 60% of the population.
While staggering, those projections don’t have to become a reality. When it comes to advancing cardiovascular health, the American Heart Association plays a crucial role in driving significant advancements through research, advocacy and community impact efforts, in addition to collaborating with healthcare providers to improve the health of everyone, everywhere. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance care standards, improve patient outcomes and promote health equity in communities across the Commonwealth and beyond.
Advancing Cardiovascular Research
As the largest non-governmental funder of heart and stroke research, the American Heart Association has been instrumental in driving advancements in cardiovascular health since 1949, investing over $5.9 billion in research funding, and currently supporting approximately 1,800 active awards totaling nearly $500 million. This funding is distributed through rigorous peer-reviewed processes to ensure that the most innovative ideas receive support. In Kentucky alone, the Association currently supports 30 active research grants totaling $6.8 million across leading institutions like the University of Kentucky, University of Louisville and University of Pikeville.
Beyond financial support, the Association actively fosters the careers of young researchers and scientists through specialized grants and mentorship programs. By nurturing talent and promoting diversity in research, the AHA contributes to the future of cardiovascular science and innovation.
To learn more about current research opportunities and how to apply, visit professional.heart.org.
Advocacy and Sustainable Health Initiatives
In addition to working with other organizations to make a lasting impact by equipping communities with Hands-Only CPR skills, tools to control hypertension and more, the American Heart Association is a leading advocate for public policies that support its mission of longer, healthier lives for all. In Kentucky, the Association works tirelessly to influence legislation at federal, state and local levels, focusing on issues such as cardiac emergency response planning, hypertension prevention and improving access to healthcare.
During the 2024 Kentucky legislative session, the Association successfully advocated for the passage of legislation requiring Cardiac Emergency Response Plans and automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in all public schools – including elementary schools and at school-sanctioned sporting events – as well as a $2.5 million appropriation to ensure implementation and sustainability. Key priorities for 2025 include securing funding to support the Kentucky Heart Disease and Stroke Program, expand the Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival (CARES) and enforce the CPR training mandate for high school students. The Association also remains vigilant in defending against threats to essential programs like SNAP (food stamps) and Medicaid, recognizing their crucial role in improving the overall health of Kentuckians.
To support these advocacy efforts and stay informed about legislative developments, join the You’re the Cure network by texting KY to 46839. Members receive regular updates and opportunities to engage with elected officials in support of these critical initiatives.
Collaboration with Healthcare Providers
The American Heart Association collaborates extensively with healthcare providers to improve patient care and outcomes through evidence-based guidelines and quality improvement initiatives. Programs like Get with The Guidelines® engage hospitals across Kentucky in continuous quality improvement efforts for heart failure, stroke and other cardiovascular conditions. By implementing these guidelines, hospitals can enhance patient care protocols and ultimately save lives
Through Healthcare Business Solutions, the Association trains more than 23 million healthcare providers worldwide each year in CPR and first aid, equipping them with the skills necessary to respond effectively to emergencies. The Resuscitation Quality Improvement (RQI)® Program further supports healthcare providers by ensuring ongoing competency in CPR skills, improving the quality of resuscitation efforts and patient outcomes.
Additionally, initiatives like Target: BP™ and Check. Change. Control. Cholesterol™ provide clinical guidelines and resources to healthcare providers and patients alike, promoting better management of blood pressure and cholesterol levels. By connecting clinicians in Kentucky with nationwide networks engaged in similar efforts, the Association facilitates knowledge sharing and collaboration to maximize its impact and strengthen the health of communities.
Physician support is crucial in the ongoing fight against heart disease and stroke. Together, we can build a healthier Kentucky and work towards a future where CVDs are preventable and survivable for all. Join the American Heart Association in making a difference today.
To learn more about the Association’s local initiatives and how you can get involved, visit heart.org/kentucky or contact AHAKentucky@heart.org.