American Heart Association and NFL Alumni Join Forces to Promote Heart Health During Men’s Health Week

The American Heart Association, in collaboration with the NFL Alumni Association, is taking a significant step forward in the fight against heart disease and stroke among men. Launching a campaign during Men’s Health Week, June 9-15, the initiative focuses on Life’s Essential 8™, a set of eight critical health measures designed to prevent these leading causes of death and disability. This partnership underscores the power of collective action in addressing public health challenges, particularly those affecting men.

Life’s Essential 8™ includes managing weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, alongside adopting a healthy diet, engaging in physical activity, avoiding tobacco, and ensuring adequate sleep. These measures, backed by extensive research, offer a comprehensive approach to reducing the risk of chronic diseases. The campaign features public service announcement videos with former NFL players, each advocating for one of the eight health components. Their involvement is strategic, aiming to reach men in a relatable and impactful manner.

Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, emphasized the importance of this initiative in reaching men where they are, encouraging them to adopt healthier lifestyles. The campaign, chaired by Ken Coffey, a former NFL safety and senior vice president of the NFL Alumni Association, leverages the influence of former athletes to educate both retired players and the general public on the importance of proactive health management.

The participation of former NFL players such as Brad Edwards, Brad Hopkins, Perry Kemp, Roman Oben, Al Smith, Johnny Walker, and Byron Williams highlights the campaign's message: taking simple steps towards health can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This collaboration not only aims to raise awareness but also to inspire actionable change, making a tangible difference in men's health across the nation.

This initiative represents a critical effort in public health, utilizing the platform of former athletes to address men's health issues directly. By focusing on practical, actionable advice, the American Heart Association and NFL Alumni Association are setting a precedent for how partnerships can amplify health messages and foster healthier communities.