HCA Florida Northside Hospital partners with St. Pete Police and American Heart Association on officer heart health
St. Petersburg, FL — Every day, law enforcement officers put their lives on the line, facing dangerous and unpredictable situations to protect our community. Yet, the great threat they encounter daily isn’t always violence — it’s a heart attack. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund reports that officers are 25% more likely to die from heart disease than violence. The agency also reports the average age of a first heart attack for law enforcement is age 45.
That’s why HCA Florida Northside Hospital has partnered with the St. Petersburg Police Department and the American Heart Association to bring lifesaving education, prevention and resources to local officers.
“We are committed to partnering with our community to help ensure those who protect us every day have the support they need to live longer, healthier lives ,” said Phil Marchesini, chief executive officer of HCA Florida Northside Hospital. “It’s an honor to stand alongside the men and women in blue and support their health and well-being.”
“We’re grateful for this partnership and for the hospital’s commitment to the health and well-being of our officers. Providing access to this heart-healthy program is an investment not just in our department, but in the long-term health of the people who serve this community every day,” said St. Petersburg Chief of Police Anthony Holloway.
Through the partnership, officers will receive ongoing education and resources each month focused on understanding their risk for heart disease, monitoring and managing blood pressure, recognizing warning signs and finding practical ways to manage stress.
“The Tampa Bay American Heart Association is proud to collaborate with HCA Northside and the St. Pete Police Department to bring the 4-month Check. Change. Control. series to department personnel and launch during Heart Month. This collaboration will provide evidence‑based education and practical tools to empower first responders to monitor and manage blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and weight — key risk factors for heart disease and stroke. Recognizing that law enforcement professionals face unique occupational stresses and hazards that increase their risk for chronic health conditions, the program focuses on prevention, early detection and sustainable lifestyle changes to support long‑term cardiovascular health and resilience on and off the job,” said Courtney Burt, vice president of community impact for American Heart Association, Tampa Bay.