Heart Rhythm Society launches Boston Citywide Awareness Campaign

May 2 2012

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick has proclaimed May to be Cardiac Arrhythmia Awareness Month, calling attention to the need for greater public awareness throughout the Commonwealth about two serious heart rhythm conditions, atrial fibrillation (also known as AF or AFib) and sudden cardiac arrest (also known as SCA). To support consumer education about these potentially life-threatening disease states, the Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) has launched a Boston Citywide Awareness Campaign to increase knowledge about symptoms, warning signs and available treatment options. As part of its initiative, HRS will host a mobile education event at Boston City Hall Plaza on May 9, which is designated Cardiac Arrhythmia Awareness Day in the city of Boston.    

"Originally founded in Boston, HRS is committed to providing residents in and around the city with education and tools critical to maintaining heart health," said Bruce L. Wilkoff, M.D., FHRS, president of the Heart Rhythm Society. "Specifically, our research shows that there is a widespread lack of understanding about sudden cardiac arrest and atrial fibrillation, which can lead people to overlook or miss warning signs while the conditions are still treatable. The citywide awareness campaign aims to make Boston a shining example of how awareness and education not only can improve quality of life, but also save lives."

"Heart rhythm conditions affect millions of Americans every day and awareness is the first, and most important, step in ensuring that patients receive the treatment they need to lead long and healthy lives," said John Smith, M.D. Ph.D., senior vice president for Clinical Development and Medical Affairs, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc. "We are proud to support HRS in its efforts to empower Bostonians during Cardiac Arrhythmia Awareness Month."

The HRS Boston Citywide Awareness Campaign is made possible by contributions from partners including: Janssen Pharmaceuticals, ZOLL Medical Corporation, eCardio Diagnostics, GE, Medtronic and Boehringer Ingelheim.

The Heart Rhythm Society's 33rd Annual Scientific Sessions, which will be held May 9-12 in Boston, Mass., will showcase the latest science, discovery and innovation essential to delivering quality care for patients.

Source: Heart Rhythm Society