ALABASTER – Mayor Marty Handlon proclaimed February as American Heart Month at an Alabaster City Council meeting on Monday, Jan. 21.

The proclamation read by Handlon states that heart disease is responsible for one in four deaths in the United States each year.

“American Heart Month is an opportunity to remember loved ones lost, raise awareness of the warning signs and symptoms of heart disease and heart attacks, and commit to a lifestyle which improves overall heart health,” the proclamation states.

Although heart disease has been the leading cause of death for nearly a century, today a smaller percentage of people died from it than in the 1960s because of the technological advancements made during decades of scientific research.

There are many factors that contribute to the risk of heart disease, but health professionals now know that committing to a healthy lifestyle that includes eating healthy and exercising regularly can make a big difference. It’s never too early or too late to improve heart health.

Handlon encouraged citizens to prioritize their health and to educate themselves about heart disease and the risk factors.

National Wear Red Day is Feb. 7. This nationwide day encourages people to wear red to show their support for the awareness of heart disease.

For more information about heart disease, go to Heart.org.