Education and Awareness
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) develops health education and awareness programs to effect positive change in public health. These initiatives focus on implementing national programs to help lower the risk for and consequences of heart, lung, blood, and sleep diseases and disorders. We develop these educational programs by first synthesizing accepted scientific findings. We then use our knowledge of adult learning theory, sound behavior change, and social marketing to design informational materials that not only effectively inform our audience but also enable them to make healthy changes to their behavior. Moreover, the NHLBI partners with private-sector organizations and other Government agencies to amplify critical public health messages.
Heart
The Heart Truth® is a national education program that raises awareness about heart disease and its risk factors.
Lung
Learn More Breathe Better® is a national health education program that raises awareness about asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and lung health.
The COPD National Action Plan is the first-ever blueprint for a multi-faceted, unified fight against the disease. Developed at the request of Congress with input from the broad COPD community, it provides a comprehensive framework for action by those affected by the disease and those who care about reducing its burden.
Blood
Blood Diseases and Disorders Education Program
A national health education program that brings greater visibility to blood diseases, disorders, donation, and safety.
Sleep
About 50 to 70 million Americans have sleep disorders, and 1 in 3 adults do not regularly get the recommended amount of uninterrupted sleep they need to protect their health.
Other Initiatives
Aim for a Healthy Weight provides science-based weight control information for patients, the public, and health professionals. Resources include healthy eating plans, menu planners, recipes, a BMI (body mass index) calculator, and physical activity tips.
We Can!® (Ways to Enhance Children's Activity & Nutrition)
We Can!® (Ways to Enhance Children’s Activity and Nutrition) is a national science-based education program designed to give parents, caregivers, and entire communities the tips, tools, and strategies they need to help children maintain a healthy weight. The program focuses on three important behaviors: improving food choices, increasing physical activity, and reducing screen time.