FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, February 29, 2008
Contact: Nanci Gonder, 573-751-0290

First Lady Melanie Blunt Encourages Missourians to Live Heart Healthy

ST. LOUIS - Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women in Missouri and First Lady Melanie Blunt is encouraging all Missourians to adopt a heart healthy lifestyle.

"Heart disease remains the number one killer of Missouri women and it is important for all women to know that by making small changes in our lifestyles we can protect our heart health," said Mrs. Blunt, who serves as the Honorary Go Red for Women Chair for Missouri.

Mrs. Blunt today attended a Go Red for Women luncheon in St. Louis to show her support for women and the ongoing fight against heart disease and stroke. She calls on women to take steps to prevent and lower their risk of heart disease by:

• Making a promise to be heart healthy.
• Visiting their healthcare provider to learn how to make heart-healthy habits part of daily life.
• Knowing their numbers. Track blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose and weight and keep them in a healthy range.

Go Red for Women is the American Heart Association's national call to increase awareness about heart disease and to inspire women to take charge of their heart health. Missouri communities host Heart Balls, Wear Red Days and other events throughout February to help celebrate Go Red for Women. For more information visit Go Red for Women's official Internet site at: www.goredforwomen.org/.

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