The American Heart Association focuses on heart and brain health for all, and has assembled a number of resources in response to consumer questions concerning COVID-19 and the heightened risk for those with heart disease and stroke survivors.
The nonprofit is providing answers and information on its websites, support networks, social media and other channels, with the help of volunteer medical and scientific research experts on the frontline of the pandemic.
Based on current information, it appears elderly people with coronary heart disease or hypertension have a higher chance of being infected and may develop more severe symptoms. Stroke survivors and others living with heart disease may also face increased risk for complications if they contract COVID-19. Those with hypertension, diabetes or cardiovascular disease are experiencing mortality rates two to three times higher than the general population (according to the WHO-China Joint Mission report). In addition, recent reports of profound myocarditis and fatal arrhythmias demonstrate the critical influence of COVID-19 on the cardiovascular system.
Dr. Mitchell S.V. Elkind, American Heart Association president-elect, and professor of neurology and epidemiology at Columbia University in New York, responded to questions from stroke survivors about COVID-19. Many responses could apply to anyone with heart disease or risk factors.
The association has curated comprehensive resources for consumers and for health care providers. In addition, the association’s 12 scientific journals are fast-track publishing the latest research related to COVID-19 and cardiovascular disease.
AHA recently announced a special $2.5 million fund for rapid response scientific research projects to investigate the cardiovascular implications of coronavirus.
Additional pertinent information available includes:
- Video: Dr. Elkind answers stroke survivor questions
- What heart patients should know about coronavirus(Lea en español)
- What people with high blood pressure need to know about COVID-19
- Patients taking angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-i) or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) medications should continue therapy as prescribed
- Health emergency? Don’t hesitate to get help
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations and powered by millions of volunteers, AHA funds innovative research, advocates for the public’s health and shares life-saving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling (800) AHA-USA1.
