U-M receives Connections for Cardiovascular Health grant to expand 'Project Healthy Schools'

The AstraZeneca HealthCare Foundation program, Connections for Cardiovascular Health^SM, today announced a grant of more than $252,000 to the University of Michigan Health System to expand "Project Healthy Schools."

The program focuses on sixth grade students and is designed to reduce childhood obesity and its long-term health risks. Project Healthy Schools has consistently shown that it lowers total cholesterol and blood pressure in students.

"Good heart health starts at a young age. Schools are powerful places to shape the health, education and wellbeing of our children," said Kim Eagle, MD, a director of the University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center. "That is why Project Healthy Schools creates environments where physical activity and healthy eating are accessible and encouraged."

The Connections for Cardiovascular Health^SM grant will enable continued growth of Project Healthy Schools into a model school-based program that supports healthy children and families and allow Project Healthy Schools to reach more students, especially those in lower income and more diverse communities. Project Healthy Schools program is offered at 13 locations in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Owosso and metro Detroit.

"Cardiovascular disease is taking a terrible toll on our families, our communities and our nation," said James W. Blasetto, MD, MPH, chairman of the AstraZeneca HealthCare Foundation. "The University of Michigan is developing a creative heart-healthy program tailored to meet the individual needs of the community."

The AstraZeneca HealthCare Foundation program, Connections for Cardiovascular Health^SM, awards grants of $150,000 and up to US-based non-profit organizations that are doing innovative work in the field of cardiovascular health in the United States.