"Medical research is alive, well in region," Nov. 28, points to just one of the many strengths of the Capital Region. The American Heart Association is proud to currently fund $1.4 million in research in the Capital Region, distributed among eight scientists at four institutions.
It's exciting to imagine what changes might come from this research, all of which has to do with the No. 1 and No. 4 killers in America, heart disease and stroke. Just a little more than 50 years ago, there was no CPR and there were no drug-eluting stents. What's being worked on now in the Capital Region that will improve the quality of life beyond our borders in the not-too-distant future?
I urge you to support institutions that support research. Money raised at American Heart Association events helps fund research. Your donations can save lives. We also advocate to protect research funding for the National Institute of Health. Heart disease and stroke were once virtual death sentences. Since 1940, research has reduced mortality from heart disease by more than 60 percent and from stroke by 70 percent.
Any cuts in funding by Congress will only delay cures for deadly diseases.
It's good to see that even as researchers look to improving our health in years to come, the investment in scientists now is an economic driver in the Capital Region.
DAN MORAN
President, Next-Act
Chairman, New York State Advocacy Committee, American Heart Association
Troy