Protecting the health of new moms

SYRACUSE, N.Y., May 7, 2025 — Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of maternal death in the U.S., or more simply put, heart disease is the No. 1 killer of new momsi. Cardiovascular disease during pregnancy leaves women with a higher lifetime risk of cardiovascular disease after delivery and an increased risk for their childrenii. The American Heart Association, the world's leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, thanks to support from Crouse Health, is encouraging moms-to-be and new moms to learn their risk factors and manage their medical conditions before, during and after pregnancy.  

Crouse Health and the American Heart Association recently presented new mom kits to the Syracuse Community Health Center. The kits, which will be given to maternity patients at the health center, include healthy items for mom and baby. There is an Infant CPR Anytime® kit so new parents can learn how to perform lifesaving CPR in a cardiac emergency. The kit also contains a home blood pressure monitor for new moms, maternal health information in both English and Spanish, and extra items provided by Crouse Health. 

Until recently, there has been little focus on how early cardiovascular health can contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes for women and their babies. Pregnancy and childbirth can put women’s health at risk, but many pregnancy-associated deaths can be avoided. The U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rates among developed countries – pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S. have risen 140% over the last three decadesiii. Cardiovascular disease can pose a threat to women’s heart health during pregnancy and later in life, making it important that women understand how to care for themselves and their baby.  

“Cardiovascular risk factors track from mother to child, regardless of the course of pregnancyiv. A healthy pregnancy is best for both mom and baby, which is why it is critical we work to raise awareness and empower women to manage their medical conditions before, during and after pregnancy, and encourage them to form lasting, trusting relationships their doctors,” said Heather Evans, executive director of the American Heart Association, Central New York. 

An estimated two out of three pregnancy deaths are preventablev. With awareness and education, lives can be saved. Moms-to-be and new moms can safeguard their health and the health of their children by understanding their risk and taking action to improve their health. 

There are many factors that impact a woman’s cardiovascular health during pregnancy, including age, race/ethnicity, hypertension, and weight. Black women and American Indian/Alaska Native women continue to be at significantly higher risk. In addition, pregnancy-related conditions such as pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes increase the odds of later cardiovascular disease. 

“Crouse Health is proud to support our work with the American Heart Association and Syracuse Community Health Center in an important initiative to educate and raise awareness about cardiovascular disease among pregnant women and new mothers,” said Dr. Seth Kronenberg president and CEO of Crouse Health and Syracuse Heart Walk volunteer chairman. “This collaboration underscores our unwavering commitment to women's health and cardiac care, as we work together to address this critical community health issue.” 

“The new mom kits from the American Heart Association and Crouse provide essential tools that empower new mothers to care for themselves and their babies,” said Dr. Chima Chionuma, MD, interim chief medical office at Syracuse Community Health Center. “The blood pressure cuffs will help moms monitor their health at home, while the infant CPR manikins offer hands-on learning to prepare for emergencies. These resources support safer, healthier outcomes for families in our community.” 

To learn more about maternal health or to access educational resources and support, visit www.goredforwomen.org/pregnancy.