Newport Mayor Recognizes Heart Awareness Month

Newport Beach Mayor Keith Curry presented a proclamation this week to the American Heart Association designating February as Heart Awareness Month.

At Tuesday's Newport Beach City Council meeting Curry presented the proclamation to AHA volunteers Ray and Judy Brandt, who are both heart disease survivors and Newport residents, and staff member Marissa Fortuno.

"Much of heart health is curable and preventable," Judy Brandt said. "There are a few easy steps that will help."

Healthy Heart Tips

• AHA recommends eating better, more fruits, veggies, whole grains, low-fat dairy, lean meats and treats like dark chocolate and red wine
• More physical activity, at least 30 minutes a day
• Regular check-ups with you doctor to know your cholesterol, blood pressure, weight and body mass index

According to the AHA, heart disease is the number one killer in America, claiming the lives of more than 831,000 men, women and children every year.

"This is very important, we should take it to heart," Curry said.