WASHINGTON, Oct. 31, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- The Larry King Cardiac Foundation (LKCF) recently received over $81,000 in proceeds from the 3rd Annual Jack Nicklaus Heart & Stroke Challenge. Jack Nicklaus, legendary golfer and campaign spokesperson, joined forces with King Pharmaceuticals and Wyeth Pharmaceuticals to create a series of month-long golf events designed to increase awareness of the rising risk of cardiovascular dysfunctions such as heart attack and stroke among people age 55 and older.
Nicklaus, a cardiac patient with hypertension, has supported the efforts of LKCF through his heart healthy program to increase awareness of cardiovascular dangers and improving treatment, research and education. He personally recognizes the importance of understanding cardiac disease and preventative care.
"Last year's Heart & Stroke Challenge was a huge success and we are thrilled to continue this partnership," said Larry King Jr., President of The Larry King Cardiac Foundation. "We believe in building partnerships. When you combine strengths of the best in each industry -- Nicklaus for golf and King Pharmaceuticals and Wyeth for healthcare -- it brings us that much closer to our goal to Save a Heart a Day."
Individuals reaching age 55 must begin to make heart health a priority; nearly one in three American adults suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure), which increases the risk for heart complications. Meanwhile, men and women age 55 and older are at an increased risk for suffering a cardiovascular event such as heart attack, stroke and even cardiovascular-related death compared with those ages 45 to 54.
During the challenge, individuals were invited to enter local golf tournaments at participating golf courses free of charge and were given the opportunity to donate money to the cause by purchasing a "mulligan," or to retake a shot. For more information on the Heart & Stroke Challenge, please visit www.cvriskreduction.com.
LKCF provides funding for life-saving treatment for individuals who, due to limited means or no insurance, would otherwise be unable to receive vital cardiac treatment. The Foundation works in conjunction with major medical centers throughout the nation to ensure that such patients receive life-saving medical attention.
Photo available upon request. For more information regarding The Larry King Cardiac Foundation, please visit www.lkcf.org.
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