WHG
What message does WHG convey to the public?
Through WHG, ACSM seeks to encourage understanding among physicians, patients, and communities about
these major health concerns:
• Patient participation in cardiac rehabilitation in the U.S. is remarkably low, despite strong evidence that
the physical training component alone reduces cardiovascular mortality for those with coronary disease;
• CVD continues to be a leading cause of death worldwide, underscoring the continuing need for more
definitive prevention and treatment strategies;
• Every person, with or without diagnosed CVD, can reduce their long-term risk by making habitual physical
activity part of their lives; and
• Physicians, patients, families, and communities should all understand the benefits of cardiac
rehabilitation, a progressive establishment of regular physical activity and healthy lifestyle behaviors.
The takeaway, of course, is that a cardiac condition need not interfere with an active, socially independent life.
Does ACSM collaborate with any other organizations on the WHG initiative?
ACSM partners with AACVPR and Georgia Heart Institute for valuable financial and logistical support.
AACVPR, a society of health professionals in the field of cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, recognizes that
many of the cardiac athletes at WHG either have or currently are participating in cardiac rehabilitation, which is
why they offer scholarships to help defray costs for team participation.
Georgia Heart Institute is the comprehensive, multi-disciplinary heart and vascular program of Northeast Georgia
Health System (NGHS). With personalized care provided for the complete spectrum of cardiovascular conditions,
Georgia Heart Institute is saving and improving lives for generations.
