Heart Association Urges Americans to Start! Walking

Program also recognizes companies that foster healthy work environments

By Janice Billingsley
HealthDay Reporter

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FRIDAY, Jan. 12 (HealthDay News) -- TV's "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman" got plenty of exercise just practicing her special brand of medicine in the rugged Old West. But her creator -- award-winning actress Jane Seymour -- admits to being a lot more proactive when it comes to protecting her health.

And to prove she practices what she preaches, Seymour was in New York City this week to help launch the American Heart Association's (AHA) new program, Start!, which encourages Americans and U.S. businesses to adopt healthier lifestyles through exercise -- especially walking -- and better nutrition.

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"Dr. Quinn was riding her horse and working outdoors, but we don't have that lifestyle anymore. People are less active due to technology," said Seymour, who is a spokeswoman for the AHA and has been active in promoting heart health.

Part of the problem is that Americans are spending more time at work than ever before -- 164 hours more a year, or nearly three weeks, than 20 years ago. But that work is more sedentary than in years past. Equally important is the fact that two-thirds of Americans are overweight, a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke as well as high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels, according to the AHA.

Each year, Americans suffer 1.2 million heart attacks, and cardiovascular disease and stroke are the nation's number one and number three killers, respectively, claiming 870,000 lives annually.

Yet, adults may gain as much as two hours of life expectancy for each hour of regular vigorous exercise, such as walking, even if they don't begin exercising until middle age, according to the heart association.

Barry A. Franklin, director of cardiac rehabilitation at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Mich., and an American Heart Association volunteer, said the Start! goal of "approaching businesses is very innovative.

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