Urgent need to address health equity at intersection of American Heart Month and Black History Month 2024

Black Americans have the highest incidence of cardiac arrest outside of the hospital and are significantly less likely to survive.[1]

Cardiac arrest in Black neighborhoods is associated with alarmingly low treatment and survival rates, and recent studies have shown lower rates of both bystander CPR and bystander AED use in these neighborhoods.1 Recognizing the unique intersection of American Heart Month and Black History Month, the American Heart Association, celebrating 100 years of service saving lives, marks the occasion by honoring three individuals for their work to improve access to equitable health and change health outcomes.

In ceremonies in New York City on February 1, 2024, hosted by CBS News National Correspondent Michelle Miller, Buffalo Bills safety and cardiac arrest survivor Damar Hamlin received the Association’s Voice of the Mission Award, recognizing his historic efforts to spread awareness about the need for CPR education and providing opportunities for training, particularly for young athletes. As the national ambassador for the American Heart Nation of LifesaversTM initiative, he is committed alongside the American Heart Association to ensure everyone, everywhere, is empowered with the lifesaving skill of CPR and has access to AEDs (automated external defibrillator) in their community, schools, workplaces, and places of worship.

The Voice of the Mission award is one of the highest volunteer honors annually bestowed by the Association. It recognizes an individual who has made a major impact in driving awareness or education by using their voice to amplify the lifesaving mission of the American Heart Association. The recipient of this award must have demonstrated success at telling their personal story. The recipient must also have inspired others to take action.