(WJW) — Iconic pop star Taylor Swift gifted a $1 million contribution to the American Heart Association in honor of her father.
According to a news release from the AHA, Swift’s donation is supporting the mission to advance ongoing scientific research into heart disease and related illnesses, stronger prevention and treatment efforts and expanded access to life‑saving care for every community.
According to the release, heart disease and stroke claim more lives in the United States than all cancers and chronic lower respiratory diseases combined, affecting nearly half of all U.S. adults.
“Taylor Swift’s remarkable generosity will create lasting change far beyond its financial value,” said Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association. “Her family’s experience with cardiovascular disease is all too common, affecting nearly half of American adults. Her commitment to supporting her father will make so many others aware of the need to take their own heart health seriously, strengthen prevention efforts, and improve controllable risk factors—ultimately helping more people live longer, healthier lives.”
Swift has spoken about her family’s experience with cardiovascular disease and her dad’s heart condition on the New Heights Podcast.
According to the AHA, preventive care is “essential” for lifelong heart health.
“Routine screenings help track blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, body weight, and lifestyle habits such as tobacco use, physical activity, and nutrition,” the release said. “Nearly 80% of heart disease can be prevented through consistent healthy behaviors, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding tobacco, and effective stress management.”
The American Heart Association projects that within 30 years, at least six in 10 Americans are expected to have cardiovascular disease.