Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
Featured Stories
New cardiology-OB-GYN continuing education to launch with $1 million gift from leading media voice on health Dr. Jennifer Ashton and husband Tom Werner
DALLAS, Texas, Feb. 23 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release:
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New cardiology-OB-GYN continuing education to launch with $1 million gift from leading media voice on health Dr. Jennifer Ashton and husband Tom Werner
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Embargoed until 12 p.m. CT/1 p.m. ET, Monday, February 23, 2026
DALLAS, Feb. 23, 2026 -The American Heart Association today announced a bold new initiative designed to transform how clinicians identify and treat cardiovascular risk in midlife women. The initiative will be powered by a landmark $1 million philanthropic
... Show Full Article
DALLAS, Texas, Feb. 23 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release:
* * *
New cardiology-OB-GYN continuing education to launch with $1 million gift from leading media voice on health Dr. Jennifer Ashton and husband Tom Werner
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Embargoed until 12 p.m. CT/1 p.m. ET, Monday, February 23, 2026
DALLAS, Feb. 23, 2026 -The American Heart Association today announced a bold new initiative designed to transform how clinicians identify and treat cardiovascular risk in midlife women. The initiative will be powered by a landmark $1 million philanthropicgift from Jennifer Ashton, M.D., M.S., FACOG, ABOM, a nationally trusted women's health authority, Emmy Award-winning medical journalist and devoted Association volunteer and board member, and her husband Tom Werner, acclaimed television producer and chairman/co-owner of Fenway Sports Group. Their extraordinary generosity reflects a deep personal commitment to women's health and will help accelerate the creation of a new professional educational program uniting cardiologists and OB-GYNs to ensure women navigating the menopause transition receive proactive, evidence based cardiovascular care.
Menopause transition is a life stage marked by sharp, independent increases in cardiometabolic risk that often go unrecognized in clinical care. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women, responsible for 1 in 3 female deaths each year, and it is projected to increase over the next few decades, according to the Association, making the need for coordinated, evidence-based guidance for women in this life stage more urgent than ever before. Propelled by Dr. Ashton and Mr. Werner's visionary investment, the American Heart Association's planned educational initiative will equip cardiologists and OB-GYNs with practical, interdisciplinary tools and education to better identify and treat cardiovascular risk in midlife women and close treatment gaps.
"We are profoundly grateful for Jen and Tom's remarkable vision and generosity," said Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of health for all. "Their leadership sets a new standard for philanthropy in women's health. This commitment will accelerate the development of interdisciplinary education, but it will also redefine how cardiovascular and gynecologic health are connected across a woman's life course ensuring women receive the proactive, integrated care they urgently need at one of life's most pivotal stages."
About the new cardio-OB-GYN CE
The vision for a new continuing education (CE) program is a collaborative one. The Heart Association is working with other professional medical societies and organizations focused on women's health care on this initiative. The overall goal is to increase healthcare professional knowledge, competence and performance around women's heart health with a focus on menopause and other OB-GYN issues. By fostering strong interdisciplinary collaboration, the education can enhance patient outcomes and reduce the burden of CVD among women.
"Menopause represents a period when women's cardiovascular risks intensify, underscoring the need for truly coordinated, evidence-informed care," said Amy Young M.D., CEO of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. "As the OB-GYN medical community seeks to do more to advance care for woman in menopause, we hope that as a certifying body, we can contribute to the collaborative conversations and the work to ensure women navigating this life stage receive safe, proactive, and connected care."
Early intervention at midlife remains one of the most powerful opportunities to prevent cardiovascular disease in women.
"As an OB-GYN, the daughter of a cardiologist and a woman, I know women's cardiovascular risks are too often overlooked in midlife, which happens because OB-GYNs often don't know the latest cardiology information, and cardiologists often are unaware of the most current aspects of menopause medicine. This program seeks to connect the dots between these two specialties with tailored curricula... it's what doctors need to know.," said Dr. Ashton, who is also the founder and president of Ajenda, a women's health platform with a focus on midlife. "Coordinated, evidence-based education that empowers clinicians across specialties is urgently needed to recognize and treat risks to women's heart and brain health earlier. Tom and I are honored to support this initiative that we believe will change -and save -countless women's lives."
Initial courses will launch in Fall 2026, with additional modules released through Spring 2027.
Women's rising cardiovascular risk at menopause
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among women, responsible for 1 in 3 female deaths each year, far exceeding deaths from all cancers combined, according to the Association, a global force changing the future of health for all.
For many women, the menopause transition marks the period when cardiovascular risk accelerates due to declining estrogen, increased abdominal fat, worsening lipid profiles, vascular stiffening, and rising blood pressure. This is a critical phase in a woman's life that warrants collaborative care between the medical specialties that take care of these women.
According to the American Heart Association:
* Hot flashes and night sweats, the most common menopause-related symptoms, are associated with worse cardiovascular disease risk factor levels.
* Cholesterol levels and metabolic syndrome risk, cardiovascular risk factors, appear to increase with menopause beyond the effects of normal aging.
* Only 7.2% of women transitioning to menopause meet physical activity guidelines, and fewer than 20% maintain a healthy diet, compounding midlife risk.
* After menopause, 1 in 4 women may develop irregular heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation (AFIB). AFib an increase stroke risk.
Additional Resources:
* Available multimedia is on right column of release link
* Go Red For Women: Menopause and cardiovascular risk
* American Heart Association Scientific Statement: " Menopause Transition and Cardiovascular Disease Risk: Implications for Timing for Early Prevention "
* American Heart Association News Release: Non-biological factors and social determinants of health important in women's CVD risk assessment
* American Heart Association Health Information: Go Red for Women
* Follow American Heart Association/American Stroke Association news on X @HeartNews
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public's health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1173
Suzanne Grant: suzanne.grant@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
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Original text here: https://newsroom.heart.org/news/new-cardiology-ob-gyn-continuing-education-to-launch-with-1-million-gift-from-leading-media-voice-on-health-dr-jennifer-ashton-and-husband-tom-werner
NAM Tour Highlights How Tax Reform Fuels Growth in North Carolina
WASHINGTON, Feb. 23 [Category: Business] -- The National Association of Manufacturers issued the following news release:
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NAM Tour Highlights How Tax Reform Fuels Growth in North Carolina
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2026 NAM State of Manufacturing Tour Stops in Charlotte and Concord, North Carolina
CHARLOTTE - The National Association of Manufacturers-official partner of America250-in partnership with the North Carolina Chamber, continued its 2026 NAM State of Manufacturing Tour today in Charlotte and Concord, North Carolina, under the theme "Competing for the Future."
The tour stop highlighted how the NAM-backed
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Feb. 23 [Category: Business] -- The National Association of Manufacturers issued the following news release:
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NAM Tour Highlights How Tax Reform Fuels Growth in North Carolina
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2026 NAM State of Manufacturing Tour Stops in Charlotte and Concord, North Carolina
CHARLOTTE - The National Association of Manufacturers-official partner of America250-in partnership with the North Carolina Chamber, continued its 2026 NAM State of Manufacturing Tour today in Charlotte and Concord, North Carolina, under the theme "Competing for the Future."
The tour stop highlighted how the NAM-backedH.R. 1 is creating a more competitive tax environment-and why sustaining that certainty, along with regulatory rebalancing, modern infrastructure and reliable energy, is critical to driving continued investment and job creation across the sector. Today's visits included Ketchie Inc., Siemens Energy and Electrolux.
"Here in North Carolina, we're seeing exactly what tax certainty makes possible," said NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons. "Thanks to President Trump and leaders in Congress, the pro-growth provisions in H.R. 1 were made permanent and strengthened, delivering a win for manufacturers of all sizes. To make the United States the best place in the world to do business and so manufacturers across North Carolina can keep investing, hiring and competing, we must build on that tax foundation we secured. That means enacting comprehensive, commonsense permitting reform to unleash American energy dominance, driving the funding we need for strong, modern infrastructure, modernizing regulations, investing in our manufacturing workforce and implementing smart AI policy-all through a comprehensive manufacturing strategy."
Ketchie President and Owner Courtney Silver hosted the first stop of the day with a tour and panel discussion on how tax certainty due to the NAM-backed H.R. 1 has empowered manufacturers like her to reinvest in their workforce and facilities. Silver emphasized that pro-growth tax policies, such as permanent full expensing, have enabled business owners to remain agile and competitive. With that tax certainty in place, Ketchie has invested in new critical machinery-expanding capacity, increasing efficiency and positioning the company to hire, grow and compete for the long term.
The tour then moved to Siemens Energy, which recently announced a $421 million expansion in North Carolina to grow its large power transformer manufacturing and continue gas turbine production in Charlotte-an investment expected to create 500 new jobs statewide.
The day concluded at the North American headquarters of Electrolux, the global home appliance manufacturer, employing hundreds in the Charlotte region.
Throughout the day, business leaders highlighted the impact of North Carolina's nearly 500,000 manufacturing workers who make up more than 11% of the workforce and power the largest manufacturing sector in the Southeast.
Timmons was joined by North Carolina Chamber President and CEO Gary Salamido and other NAM leaders throughout the day. Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Derek Theurer and Rep. Tim Moore (R-NC) participated in the visit to Ketchie.
"Thanks to America First policies, domestic manufacturing is back, and we're seeing serious investments right here in North Carolina," said Rep. Moore. "It was great to join the National Association of Manufacturers at Ketchie alongside Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Derek Theurer to see firsthand how tax certainty and pro-growth policies are giving companies the confidence to expand and compete with anyone in the world."
"North Carolina's manufacturers are a major driver of our state's economy, contributing a higher-than-average 15% of our gross state product," said Salamido. "With a manufacturing tradition like ours, we are proud to partner with the NAM to show the nation that our state is the premier destination for manufacturing, so long as pro-business policies allow for it."
From Charlotte, the 2026 NAM State of Manufacturing Tour will go on to Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Dallas and Houston, Texas; and Phoenix, Arizona. The tour made stops in New York City, Cleveland and Pennsylvania prior to today's events in Charlotte. Throughout the tour, the NAM will continue meeting with policymakers, manufacturers of all sizes, students and business leaders, advocating for the people and policies that will ensure the United States is the best place in the world to do business. To learn more about the tour and the NAM's mission, visit https://nam.org/stateofmfg/.
-NAM-
The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.95 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.
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Original text here: https://nam.org/nam-tour-highlights-how-tax-reform-fuels-growth-in-north-carolina-35832/?stream=series-press-releases&utm_source=link&utm_medium=social
Miami Boat Show Fuels Sales with Refined Experience and Innovation
CHICAGO, Illinois, Feb. 23 [Category: Business] -- The National Marine Manufacturers Association posted the following news release:
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Miami Boat Show Fuels Sales with Refined Experience and Innovation
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The annual Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show concluded its 85th edition following five days of industry engagement and qualified buyer activity across Miami and Miami Beach, attracting tens of thousands of boating enthusiasts worldwide to see and shop new boats, global debuts and marine innovations, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone marketplace for the recreational marine
... Show Full Article
CHICAGO, Illinois, Feb. 23 [Category: Business] -- The National Marine Manufacturers Association posted the following news release:
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Miami Boat Show Fuels Sales with Refined Experience and Innovation
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The annual Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show concluded its 85th edition following five days of industry engagement and qualified buyer activity across Miami and Miami Beach, attracting tens of thousands of boating enthusiasts worldwide to see and shop new boats, global debuts and marine innovations, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone marketplace for the recreational marineindustry.
Strategic enhancements to the show's campus footprint, including the return of in-water yacht displays along Collins Avenue and improved connectivity across venues, strengthened navigation, elevated the attendee experience, and helped drive targeted traffic to exhibitors throughout the week.
Exhibitor feedback reflected a mixed but encouraging retail environment consistent with broader industry trends. While several manufacturers and dealers reported year-over-year sales gains and strong lead generation, others cited measured demand as market headwinds continue to influence buyer behavior.
"Streamlining five locations into three focused venues improved connectivity and created clear product differentiation for our customers," said Andrew Doole, President of U.S. Boat Shows at Informa Markets, show producer. "The Convention Center and Progressive Boat Show Experience, Yacht Collection on Collins Avenue, and Sailor's Cove at IGY Yacht Haven Grande each offer distinct experiences and products for attendees. This rebranding and footprint consolidation improved traffic flow between locations and created an effective marketplace for exhibitors and buyers. We're thrilled with the 2026 launch of the reimagined campus, and we're already focusing on areas of opportunity for 2027."
"The Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show is a cornerstone event for our industry, serving as both the global stage for the largest concentration of new product introductions and world debuts in recreational boating and significant sales driver for the industry," said Frank Hugelmeyer, President & CEO, National Marine Manufacturers Association, show owner. "As the North American launch point for the sales year, the show serves as a critical bellwether for market performance. Exhibitor results reflected both momentum and ongoing market challenges, with some reporting increased sales and others seeing more moderate demand. We remain focused on building on the successes of 2026 to support the industry's growth moving forward."
Boat manufacturers and dealers reported positive buyer engagement, with new product introductions and model debuts contributing to booth traffic and purchase discussions.
"Returning to Collins Avenue was a great move and the energy across the show reflected that. Activity at the Miami Beach Convention Center was strong, and our brands having a presence across all three primary locations allowed us to fully engage customers across our brands throughout the event. Collins Avenue also produced a number of very high-quality prospects that were new to MarineMax. The reimagined show footprint created a strong experience for both exhibitors and buyers," said Chuck Cashman, Chief Revenue Officer of MarineMax.
"The Miami International Boat Show isn't just a moment for Yamaha. It's a momentum setter that carries through the entire year," said Bryan Seti, Vice President of Yamaha Boat Business Unit. "Miami is where innovation meets the market, and this year it clearly validated the direction we're taking as a brand. Seeing the Yamaha CrossWave earn Boating Magazine's Boat of the Year at the show, along with the Miami Innovation Award for Personal Watercraft, confirms that our ideas aren't just different, they're connecting. That recognition fuels momentum for our dealers, our customers, and our product roadmap long after Miami ends."
Reimagined Campus Strengthened Buyer Flow and Marketplace Performance
The 2026 show operated across three primary locations:
* Miami Beach Convention Center and Pride Park
* Miami Beach Yacht Collection along Collins Avenue
* Sailor's Cove at IGY Yacht Haven Grande Miami
The return of in-water yacht displays to Collins Avenue for the first time since 2018 re-established a central waterfront corridor, improving visibility and creating a more seamless experience for serious buyers navigating between land-based exhibits and on-water showcases.
The Miami Beach Yacht Collection delivered a focused environment for luxury and internationally minded consumers, while the Convention Center remained a high-traffic hub supporting discovery, accessories, engines, and volume-driven boat categories.
"This year's Collins Avenue layout delivered a more effective environment for yacht exhibitors and buyers," said Paul Flannery, Chief Operating Officer, International Yacht Brokers Association. "The displays were easier to navigate, engagement was strong, and we see opportunity to expand our presence next year."
Sailor's Cove debuted as a dedicated destination for the sailing community, featuring sailboats, catamarans, equipment exhibitors, and educational programming -broadening the show's reach while attracting qualified buyers within the sailing segment.
Miami Boat Show Anchor for Marine Innovation and Global Debuts
The Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show continues to serve as a global launch platform for new boats, marine technologies, and product innovations spanning nearly every segment of recreational boating.
Advancements in connected vessel systems, hybrid propulsion, intelligent docking, and integrated helm technologies demonstrated how manufacturers are continuing to enhance usability, safety, and accessibility for boaters while investing in sustainability and efficiency.
The annual Innovation Awards recognized standout achievements across propulsion, electronics, onboard systems, safety, and vessel design -honoring manufacturers and suppliers driving the industry forward through technological advancement.
A Cornerstone Event for the Global Marine Industry
For 85 years, the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show has played a defining role in shaping recreational boating globally -serving as both an economic engine for South Florida and an international marketplace connecting manufacturers, dealers, suppliers, and buyers. International attendance increased approximately 20 percent year over year, with more than 100 countries represented and notably strong attendance from Latin American countries.
The Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show returns February 10-14, 2027.
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Original text here: https://www.nmma.org/press/article/25417
Declines in Cervical Cancer Incidence in U.S. Varied Substantially by State, Aligning With HPV Vaccination Rates, New ACS Study Finds
ATLANTA, Georgia, Feb. 23 [Category: Medical] -- The American Cancer Society posted the following news release:
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Declines in Cervical Cancer Incidence in U.S. Varied Substantially by State, Aligning With HPV Vaccination Rates, New ACS Study Finds
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ATLANTA, February 23, 2026 -A new study by researchers at the American Cancer Society (ACS) shows cervical cancer incidence rates in women ages 20-31 declined by 27% in the United States between 2016-2021, when the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine was available, compared to 2000-2005, before the implementation of the vaccine. However, there
... Show Full Article
ATLANTA, Georgia, Feb. 23 [Category: Medical] -- The American Cancer Society posted the following news release:
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Declines in Cervical Cancer Incidence in U.S. Varied Substantially by State, Aligning With HPV Vaccination Rates, New ACS Study Finds
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ATLANTA, February 23, 2026 -A new study by researchers at the American Cancer Society (ACS) shows cervical cancer incidence rates in women ages 20-31 declined by 27% in the United States between 2016-2021, when the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine was available, compared to 2000-2005, before the implementation of the vaccine. However, therewere substantial differences in progress across individual states, ranging from more than a 50% decrease in cervical cancer incidence to no progress at all. The study is to be published today in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (JNCI).
"Compared to the reduction at the national level, the large declines in cervical cancer incidence observed in several states were very encouraging, while little or no progress in other states shows the need for targeted intervention," said Chenxi Jiang, MPH, associate scientist, surveillance, prevention, & health services research at the American Cancer Society and lead author of the study. "Notably, the significant correlation between higher vaccination rates and greater progress across states was consistent with what we anticipated based on the proven effectiveness of the HPV vaccine."
For the study, researchers used cancer incidence data from the U.S. Cancer Statistics Database. Differences in cervical cancer incidence rates for women aged 20-31 between the pre-vaccination (2000-2005) and vaccination era (2016-2021) were estimated using rate ratios (RRs) across 47 states and the District of Columbia (D.C.). Associations between HPV vaccination rates from the National Immunization Survey-Teen and RRs were examined and adjusted for cervical cancer screening rates from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.
The results showed that nationwide, cervical cancer incidence rates declined by 27% during the vaccination era, from 5.1 to 3.7 per 100,000. Reductions exceeded 50% in D.C., Rhode Island, Michigan, and Hawaii, with 28 additional states achieving statistically significant reductions of 15-50%. Ten states showed slower decreases (less than 15%). Notably, progress was lacking in Vermont, West Virginia, Idaho, Arkansas, and Alabama. Across states, higher vaccination rates were correlated with greater reduction in cervical cancer incidence rates (i.e., lower RRs). Every 10% increase in vaccination rates was associated with an 11.5% reduction in RRs, adjusted for screening rates.
"With comparable state-level measures, we now have an opportunity to identify areas with slower progress against cervical cancer, inform tailored policy response, and guide the allocation of public health resources to help," added Dr. Hyuna Sung, senior principal scientist, cancer surveillance research at the American Cancer Society and senior author of the report. "Our study provides further evidence that the benefits of one of the most effective and highly affordable cancer prevention measures remain unevenly distributed across states. Persistently lower HPV vaccination coverage in some states is likely to contribute to widening regional disparities, particularly as cohorts of young women with inadequate protection age into higher-risk age groups. Improving HPV vaccination uptake in states with currently low coverage is essential to reducing these disparities and represents a key step toward achieving cervical cancer elimination at the national level."
"This study underscores the importance of supporting strong vaccination uptake and policies nationwide to reduce the burden of cancer," said Lisa Lacasse, president of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), ACS's advocacy affiliate. "ACS CAN believes that everyone should have access to safe and effective vaccines, including the HPV vaccine, regardless of where they live, and should not encounter health insurance and other barriers to access those vaccinations. We therefore advocate for policies at the federal, state, and local levels that support science-based immunization recommendations and policies that protect all communities."
Other ACS researchers contributing to this study include Jessica Star, MA, MPH, Dr. Priti Bandi, and Dr. Ahmedin Jemal.
Additional ACS Resources:
* Annual Statistics Report 2026
* American Cancer Society Updates Cervical Cancer Screening Guideline
* Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Report: Cervical Cancer Prevention is Lagging
About the American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society is a leading cancer-fighting organization with a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. For more than 110 years, we have been improving the lives of people with cancer and their families as the only organization combating cancer through advocacy, research, and patient support. We are committed to ensuring everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. To learn more, visit cancer.org or call our 24/7 helpline at 1-800-227-2345. Connect with us on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
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Original text here: https://pressroom.cancer.org/declines-in-cervical-cancer-hpv-vaccine
Data shows continuing need to expand CPR education and training in Black communities
DALLAS, Texas, Feb. 23 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release:
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Data shows continuing need to expand CPR education and training in Black communities
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DALLAS, Feb. 23, 2026 -Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and despite progress in reducing heart disease and stroke nationwide, generations of structural barriers have left many Black communities facing a higher burden of cardiac arrest, high blood pressure, heart failure and stroke. [1] These disparities contribute to higher death rates and lower
... Show Full Article
DALLAS, Texas, Feb. 23 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release:
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Data shows continuing need to expand CPR education and training in Black communities
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DALLAS, Feb. 23, 2026 -Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and despite progress in reducing heart disease and stroke nationwide, generations of structural barriers have left many Black communities facing a higher burden of cardiac arrest, high blood pressure, heart failure and stroke. [1] These disparities contribute to higher death rates and lowersurvival during cardiac emergencies, according to the American Heart Association.
For American Heart Month and Black History Month in February, the American Heart Association, the world's leading nonprofit organization focused on changing the future of health for all, is calling for renewed action to close these gaps through expanded CPR education and advocacy. "You Are the First Responder Until Help Arrives," underscores a truth we can all act on today: when an emergency strikes, the first actions taken by family, friends, co-workers and bystanders can make all the difference.
Data from the Association's 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update highlights the persistent burden of disproportions for the Black population: [2]
* Nearly 6 in 10 Black adults aged 20 and older live with some form of cardiovascular disease, including heart disease, stroke or hypertension.
* Stroke prevalence remains highest among Black women and men.
* Black adults experience some of the highest hypertension rates in the world, increasing the risk of stroke, heart attack and kidney disease.
* Black adults account for more than half of heart failure hospitalizations among Americans under age 50.
"The science is clear: Black communities continue to face disproportionate risks of heart disease and stroke," said Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association and executive director of the Katz Institute for Women's Health and senior vice president of women's health at Northwell Health in New York City. "But data alone won't drive change. Progress happens when we work hand in hand with communities to address root causes, expand access to care and ensure more people are prepared to save a life when every second counts."
Everyone has a role to play. This month, the Association is bringing that message to living rooms, congregations, classrooms and neighborhood gathering places through culturally responsive outreach and training. Individuals can join the Nation of Lifesavers(tm) by watching a 90-second Hands-Only CPR video, practicing the two key steps and looking for the nearest AED in the places you live, learn, work and pray. Help ensure more people are prepared to act as the first responder until professional help arrives.
Closing the gap in cardiovascular health requires both lifesaving readiness and long-term solutions. With volunteers, clinicians, faith leaders and local organizations, the Association collaborates to develop culturally relevant solutions including initiatives such as the EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator(tm), the Heart of Innovation HBCU Challenge, the American Heart Association Scholars Program, Well-Being Works Better(tm) and the Bernard J. Tyson Impact Fund, which supports community-based organizations advancing equitable health for all. These efforts build on programs that channel resources to local changemakers and create sustainable impact across neighborhoods.
As the American Heart Association celebrates Black History Month, it is also recognizing Black innovators who are advancing cardiovascular health today. Among those the organization is spotlighting are Fredrick Robinson, founder of the Black Heart Association, a nonprofit empowering communities to take charge of their health through education and health screenings; Kwamane Liddell, a nurse and lawyer who founded ThriveLink, a health technology platform that makes preventive care resources accessible to everyone; and William "BJ" Hicks, the American Heart Association's 2025 Physician of the Year, a neurologist specializing in stroke treatment, prevention and research bringing mobile stroke care to his hometown in Columbus, Ohio. Their stories reflect a shared belief: when communities are trusted, resourced and seen, healthier futures follow. "In a cardiac emergency, the first few minutes belong to the people nearby, not the hospital," said Dr. Hicks. "Black Americans are more likely to have their heart suddenly stop and less likely to receive lifesaving CPR or AED help. That's why expanding Hands-Only CPR and AED awareness in Black communities is urgent. When more families, neighbors and faith communities are trained and confident to act, more lives can be saved."
Additional Resources:
* VIDEO: Impact With Heart Awards: Kwamane Liddell, CEO and founder of ThriveLink
* Photos available on the right column of the release link.
* For more information about the Nation of Lifesavers(tm), visit this website.
* Understanding the importance of the lay responder experience in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: A scientific statement from the American Heart Association
* Difference in cardiac arrest vs. heart attack
* Learn Hands-Only CPR/use an AED ( English, Spanish, Mandarin )
* Bystander CPR
* Bystander CPR Infographic
* Hands-Only CPR Resources
* Follow AHA/ASA news on X @HeartNews
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public's health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1869
Jennifer Braxton: jennifer.braxton@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
[1] Cardiovascular Diseases in African Americans: Fostering Community Partnerships to Stem the Tide - PMC
[2] 2026 Stats Update Fact Sheet US Black Race and CVD
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Original text here: https://newsroom.heart.org/news/data-shows-continuing-need-to-expand-cpr-education-and-training-in-black-communities
American Public Health Association Criticizes Trump Administration Health Policies Ahead of State of the Union
WASHINGTON, Feb. 23 [Category: Health Care] -- Georges C. Benjamin, CEO of the American Public Health Association, issued a statement criticizing policies under President Trump, saying they have weakened the nation's public health system and increased health risks.
Benjamin said that federal personnel and funding cuts have disrupted research and public health programs nationwide, while withdrawal from the World Health Organization and the elimination of global health initiatives have undermined health security.
-- Shanskar Shaw, Targeted News Service
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Here is the text of the statement:
As
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Feb. 23 [Category: Health Care] -- Georges C. Benjamin, CEO of the American Public Health Association, issued a statement criticizing policies under President Trump, saying they have weakened the nation's public health system and increased health risks.
Benjamin said that federal personnel and funding cuts have disrupted research and public health programs nationwide, while withdrawal from the World Health Organization and the elimination of global health initiatives have undermined health security.
-- Shanskar Shaw, Targeted News Service
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Here is the text of the statement:
AsPresident Trump prepares for his State of the Union, we doubt he is reflecting on the health of the nation. If he is, his address should explain why his administration's policies and those he appointed to lead federal health agencies have undermined the health of the American people.
The administration has paralyzed the nation's public health system with a series of indiscriminate cuts to personnel and program funding, which impacts work at the federal, state and local levels. These callous changes halted health research across the country and threaten our nation's leadership in innovative and productive enterprises, as other nations are ready and willing to eat our lunch. In addition, they undermined the nation's health security by withdrawing from the WHO and eliminating USAID and other global health programs. These efforts have left us blind to the many health threats confronting our nation today and unprepared for future threats.
They reduced access to health care by increasing the cost of insurance coverage for most people. This occurred through changes to Medicaid and Medicare that limited access, along with when they refused to extend the subsidies for the health exchanges established under the Affordable Care Act. They also failed to effectively reduce the cost of prescription drugs in Medicare under existing law.
Uncontrolled outbreaks of infectious diseases like measles, combined with illegal, irresponsible and non-evidence-based changes to our nation's vaccine procedures and recommendations are putting all people at risk.
In the last two weeks, the EPA rescinded the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding and protections to reduce mercury and other dangerous air pollution from power plants. With these actions, the administration is limiting our ability to protect our air from harmful pollutants. These are just some of the ways this administration has sided with business interests, instead of protecting our health.
Simply said, since President Trump took office, the risk to the health of every person living in the U.S. and around the world has grown and the overall health of the nation has deteriorated.
Reduced access to care, higher health care costs, lower vaccination rates, more preventable diseases and less healthy air, water and food -this is a blueprint to make America unhealthy.
The American Public Health Association champions optimal, equitable health and well-being for all. With our broad-based member community and 150-year perspective, we influence federal policy to improve the public's health. Learn more at www.apha.org.
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Original text here: https://www.apha.org/news-and-media/news-releases/apha-news-releases/making-america-unhealthy-a-blueprint
US Supreme Court to Consider Fossil Fuel Industry Effort to Circumvent State Courts
CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts, Feb. 23 [Category: Environment] -- The Union of Concerned Scientists posted the following news release:
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US Supreme Court to Consider Fossil Fuel Industry Effort to Circumvent State Courts
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CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (February 23, 2026)-The U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS) today agreed to hear arguments from Suncor Energy and ExxonMobil challenging local governments' ability to seek relief for climate change damages in state courts. SCOTUS's approval of the petition will be closely watched given the many previous rulings, including from this Supreme Court, that affirm state
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CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts, Feb. 23 [Category: Environment] -- The Union of Concerned Scientists posted the following news release:
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US Supreme Court to Consider Fossil Fuel Industry Effort to Circumvent State Courts
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CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (February 23, 2026)-The U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS) today agreed to hear arguments from Suncor Energy and ExxonMobil challenging local governments' ability to seek relief for climate change damages in state courts. SCOTUS's approval of the petition will be closely watched given the many previous rulings, including from this Supreme Court, that affirm statecourts as the appropriate venue for related cases. Numerous other climate accountability lawsuits filed by states and municipalities have been waiting on the outcome of this petition to move forward with their own cases in state courtrooms across the country. Justice Samuel Alito, despite conflicts of interest leading to his recusal from considering similar petitions, has refused to recuse himself in this instance.
This development comes shortly after the announcement by U.S. House Representative Harriet Hageman that she is crafting a bill to gift fossil fuel companies complete immunity from legal liability, a 2026 priority for the American Petroleum Institute, the largest trade association for the oil and gas industry. It also follows a group of fossil fuel funded Attorneys General successfully removing the climate science chapter from a federal judicial manual.
Below is a statement by Dr. Carly Phillips, a research scientist with the Science Hub for Climate Litigation at the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS).
"The fossil fuel industry is desperately seeking to block the evidence of its decades of deceit from being heard in courtrooms across the country. This development represents one piece of a multipronged campaign by Big Oil to avoid accountability, including through efforts to secure sweeping legal immunity and to undermine the role of climate science in the courtroom.
"I'm disappointed SCOTUS agreed to hear this case, since lower courts have consistently recognized that state courts are the appropriate venue for state-law claims about deception and local damages. This comes at a moment when the fossil fuel industry is pursuing all possible pathways to avoid accountability, including lobbying Congress and state legislatures for legal liability waivers, raising serious concerns about their coordinated effort to shut down these cases before they can proceed to trial.
"Communities have long relied on state courts to seek remedies for local harms and an industry-friendly ruling in this case could jeopardize access to justice for people across the country. As the fossil fuel industry's options for evading litigation narrow, it's imperative to pushback against immunity laws like those proposed in Utah, Oklahoma and Congress and to closely monitor coordinated efforts to shut down climate accountability cases-efforts that industry trade groups have explicitly identified as a priority for them in the year ahead. The future of climate justice depends on people being able to hold big polluters accountable in the courts.
"Justice has been delayed for far too long-it's time these cases are heard in state court on their merits."
Additional UCS Resources:
* " Decades of Deceit " report on fossil fuel companies' coordinated climate disinformation campaigns dating back to the 1950s
* Blog post forecasting 2026 climate litigation trends
* Blog post highlighting climate accountability legal victories in 2025
* Statement on Utah, Oklahoma fossil fuel immunity shield bills
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Original text here: https://www.ucsusa.org/about/news/scotus-considers-fossil-fuel-industry-circumventing-state-courts
