ery few organizations reach 100 years—which makes the centennial of the American Heart Association (AHA) an achievement that is “something to behold,” says AHA, Alaska Executive Director Kristin George. “I believe this milestone is a testament to the life-saving initiatives and tangible results we’ve championed to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere,” she says.

Founded by six cardiologists as a small professional health society, the AHA is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. From scientific discoveries to public education and advocacy, the AHA has created a massive impact over the years. The association has invested more than $5.7 billion in scientific research that has supported life-saving innovations, including the implantable pacemaker, artificial heart valve replacements, and drugcoated stents.

The AHA’s education efforts have heightened public awareness of heart attack and stroke symptoms, heart-healthy eating patterns, and Hands-Only cardiopulmonary resuscitation skills. Thanks to its advocacy work, most public spaces are smokefree and school lunches are more nutritious. The AHA has advocated on behalf of Alaskans, with policy wins like the extension of Medicaid coverage to twelve months for new mothers in Alaska, helping their babies have the best possible start in life. “I can’t wait to see what the next 100 years bring for the organization—especially here in Alaska,” George says.

Cardiovascular health is multifaceted and interconnected to wellbeing in other parts of the body. That’s why the AHA is committed to advancing scientif ic discoveries, clinical care improvements, community impact initiatives, and policy to enhance cardiovascular health. It also combats emerging health threats like the risk of e-cigarettes. George explains, “We’re advocating for policies, such as the recent tax passed by the Fairbanks City and North Star Borough Assembly, that will help keep dangerous tobacco and nicotine products away from kids and teens.”

A champion of health equity, the AHA focuses on identifying and removing barriers to health care access and quality. It drives change by working with clinical, community impact, and organizational partners like Catholic Social Services, Kenai Peninsula Food Bank, and Bethel Family Clinic, which empowers residents with blood pressure management devices and educational resources. “Our project in Bethel helps make it easier for community members to take control of their health and work to manage this critical health indicator from the comfort of their home, alongside the guidance of a local clinic,” George says.

Bethel Family Clinic’s medical director, Debra L. Cyphert, MSN, FNP, expressed this about the project in a September 18, 2023 news release: “For those who are making lifestyle changes like adjustments to diet or increasing physical activity, seeing the impact of those changes through their daily readings can be very encouraging and informative.”

In honor of this year’s centennial celebration, AHA encourages Alaskans to participate in its 100 Ways in 100 Days program, annual AHA events around the state, and community sponsorship and donation opportunities. Contact the AHA to learn more about how to join the fight against heart disease and stroke.