Rep. Lawson-Rowe Celebrates the Passage of HB 104 Establishing "Cardiovascular Health Awareness Day"

COLUMBUS— State Rep. Meredith Lawson-Rowe (D-Reynoldsburg) today proudly announced the passage of House Bill (HB) 104, bipartisan legislation designating February 14 as Cardiovascular Health Awareness Day in Ohio. HB 104 passed unanimously 93-0.

"Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in Ohio and across the nation. With the passage of HB 104, we are committing to raising awareness, promoting prevention, and saving lives," said Rep. Lawson-Rowe. "Designating this day is a small but powerful step toward educating our communities, especially our most vulnerable, about the importance of heart health." 

The American Heart Association estimates that nearly half of all U.S. adults have some form of cardiovascular disease. Moreover, limited health literacy is a key barrier to managing chronic conditions like hypertension and heart failure conditions, disproportionately impacting communities of color, seniors, and individuals with lower socioeconomic status.

According to a 2018 scientific statement by the American Heart Association:

• 36% of U.S. adults have basic or below-basic health literacy;
• Individuals with limited health literacy are at greater risk for hospitalization, poor medication adherence, and cardiovascular-related mortality; and
• Promoting accessible, community-based education is critical to improving outcomes and reducing disparities. 

HB 104 passed the Ohio House of Representatives with strong bipartisan support and now heads to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.

EDITOR'S NOTE: A picture of Rep. Lawson-Rowe giving her floor speech is attached to this press release. Courtesy: Ohio House Democrats.