Men have a greater risk of heart attack than women, and they have attacks earlier in life. Each year about 55,000 more women than men have strokes, and about 60 percent of total stroke deaths occur in women. Heart disease isn't just a man's disease. Heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases are devastating to women, too. In fact, coronary heart disease, which causes heart attack, is the single leading cause of death for American women. Many women believe that cancer is more of a threat, but they're wrong. Nearly twice as many women in the United States die of heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases as from all forms of cancer, including breast cancer.

While it is clear that age and heredity are significant risk factors that effect heart health, other factors include diet, physical activity, physical addictions and weight. An area of concern that has been added to our healthy heart radar is stress and depression.

At ACASA, we understand, acknowledge and are keenly aware of the invaluable gift that laughter provides to every human being. The inherent impact of comedy and laughter is instrumental to each of us so that we can live happy lives and have a healthy heart.

The American Heart Association mission is to build healthier lives, free from cardiovascular disease and stroke. One of the principles supported and encouraged by their organization is that laughter is the best medicine. Laughing quickens the pulse rate, stimulates the blood circulation, activates muscles, increases oxygen intake and helps you relax. The American Heart Association promotes the benefits of laughter medicine. Medical studies show that laughter boosts levels of endorphins, the body's "feel-good" hormones and also boosts the immune system.

ACASA strongly believes that laughter, humor and comedy assist in reducing stress, lower depression and help your spirit, body and mind to heal. Groucho Marx said, "A clown is like an aspirin, only he works twice as fast." ACASA agrees with Groucho, and offer the “prescribes” that we all have at least one “aspirin” per day.

We support the AHA by producing special comedy event fundraisers aimed to heighten the awareness of prevention. ACASA International members spread the joy of laughter as one of the best prescriptions for a healthy heart and healthy lifestyle.