New National Initiative Will Advance Science, Deepen Understanding of Heart-Brain Connection

CHICAGO, IL - November 8, 2026 (NEWMEDIAWIRE) - With growing scientific evidence underscoring the close connection between heart and brain health, the American Heart Association Center for the Brain™ is being established to advance science, deepen understanding and help people live longer, healthier lives.

The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, is expanding its focus on brain health as an important part of overall wellness and longevity. This includes a growing emphasis on opportunities for prevention at every age and stage of life.

Brain health shapes how people think, move and function throughout their lives. Many of the factors that affect the heart also affect the brain, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and smoking. Managing these risk factors and following healthy lifestyle behaviors, including those outlined in the American Heart Association Life’s Essential 8™, can support brain health and healthier aging.

“Heart health and brain health cannot be viewed in isolation. They are deeply connected throughout our lives,” said Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association. “Building on the extraordinary body of knowledge and innovative science generated through the American Stroke Association since 1998, the Center for the Brain will bring together researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, advocates and communities to deepen our understanding of the heart-brain connection and turn that knowledge into action, helping people maximize their brain health throughout their lives.”

The announcement comes as the evidence-based understanding of brain health continues to evolve. To date, the Heart Association has awarded nearly $800 million to support scientific research related to the brain and stroke.

“We are at an inflection point in brain science,” said Mitch Elkind, M.D., M.S., FAHA, chief science officer for brain health and stroke of the American Heart Association. “Advances in research are creating new opportunities to protect brain health and prevent disease earlier. Through the Center, we can harness the American Heart Association’s experience in science, guidelines and systems of care to create a more integrated approach to all aspects of brain health across the lifespan.”

Since the American Heart Association’s founding in 1924, death rates from cardiovascular disease have been reduced by half and deaths from stroke decreased by one-third.

“This progress shows what’s possible, and we’re excited about what comes next,” Brown said. “We are committed to creating a future where more people can enjoy healthier hearts and healthier brains as we continue to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere.”

Find resources to help protect brain health throughout life at Heart.org.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1173

Darcy Wallace: [email protected]
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org

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