Byron Dorgan: “Today marks the start of American Heart Month. I note the occasion not as a reminder to my colleagues to purchase…”

“Today marks the start of American Heart Month. I note the occasion not as a reminder to my colleagues to purchase flowers or chocolates for their loved ones for Valentine's Day but as a reminder that we need to redouble our efforts to fight heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. More than 80 million Americans--about 1 in 3 adults--are living with some form of cardiovascular disease. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in America and stroke is the No. 3 killer. These devastating diseases have touched the lives of nearly every family in America. Heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases will cost our Nation more than $430 billion in 2007, including more than $284 billion in direct medical costs. While it is true that we are making some progress, we can't win the fight against heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases without the support of Congress and the administration. I believe investing in cardiovascular research, prevention, and treatment programs should be one of our highest priorities.”