There’s a powerful health story unfolding in the U.S.: deaths from heart attacks have plummeted nearly 90% since 1970, thanks to medical breakthroughs and public health gains. But while we’re celebrating those victories, the data also reveals a new challenge—chronic heart conditions are on the rise.

A landmark study in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that heart attack fatalities now account for just under 30% of heart disease deaths, down from 54% in the early 1970s. Survival rates have improved dramatically with advances like bystander CPR, artery-opening stents, statins, and stricter anti-smoking campaigns.

But here’s the catch: deaths from arrhythmias jumped 450%, heart failure rose 146%, and hypertensive heart disease increased 106%. Contributing factors? Aging population, obesity shooting from 15% to 40%, soaring diabetes, and hypertension rates.

The takeaway is clear: we've cured one killer, but now must manage another wave of chronic cardiovascular disease. Experts urge focus on prevention—maintaining healthy weight, controlling blood pressure and blood sugar, regular exercise, and good sleep—all echoed in the American Heart Association’s "Life’s Essential 8"

The big picture? This is a monumental public health success—and a call to action. The hard-fought fight isn’t over—but the progress is real. That’s what’s right with the world.