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Hard Hats with Heart across the Carolinas: Building Stronger Hearts and Communities

by Mattie Lee, American Heart Association on

The American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, annually brings together industry leaders and corporations from across the Carolinas for their Hard Hats with Heart gatherings in various regions of North Carolina and South Carolina. The purpose of these events is to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke in the construction industry.

Construction Industry Statistics

Did you know that 1 in 25 construction industry workers is diagnosed with cardiovascular disease? Cardiovascular disease impacts everyone, but the American Heart Association specifically recognizes its higher prevalence in the construction industry.

  • 1 in 4 construction workers struggle with being overweight.
  • 1 in 4 construction workers are tobacco users.
  • 1 in 4 construction workers struggle to find time for appropriate exercise.

Raising Awareness in the Carolinas

Hard Hats with Heart is an industry-specific campaign that addresses why the construction industry is disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease and helps organizations in the industry prioritize their commitment to heart health and safety. Hard Hats with Heart will host several events throughout the Carolinas in October, providing companies and industry leaders the opportunity to network and discuss this important focus.

It’s no secret that industrial careers are demanding both physically and mentally, requiring early starts, long hours, strenuous activity, and often, eating for convenience rather than health. That’s why the American Heart Association has initiated this campaign to engage industrial workers across the country and inspire them to live healthier, longer lives.

The funds raised from Hard Hats with Heart support research, advocacy, CPR training, and efforts to promote better health, aligning with the Association’s 2024 Health Equity Impact Goal, which aims to reduce barriers to healthcare access and quality. We invite you to join us at your upcoming local event and collaborate with the American Heart Association to build stronger hearts and communities:

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.