Jackson Free Press

About a quarter of the deaths in Mississippi are due to heart disease, according to the 2009 National Vital Statistics Report. The American Heart Association wants to reverse that alarming statistic, by raising funds and encouraging healthy lifestyles. The AHA expects more than 4,000 Jackson-metro residents to participate in its annual Heart Walk Sept. 30 to raise funds to fight heart disease and stroke, America's No. 1 and No. 4 killers.

Research shows that walking is the single most effective form of exercise to achieve heart health. Experts say the benefits of walking and moderate physical activity for as little as 30 minutes each day can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

"For every hour of brisk walking, life expectancy may increase for some adults by as much as two hours," Claude W. Harbarger, president and CEO of St. Dominic Health Services, said. "That's a 'healthy' return on investment."

The non-competitive, three-mile walk and one-mile survivor route, is free, and you don't need a babysitter to come; Metro Jackson Heart Walk will have a special "Kid's Zone" area for children to enjoy.

Activities begin at 1 p.m. The walk starts at 2 p.m. at the Mississippi State Capitol (400 High St.). For more info, call the American Heart Association at 601-321-1216, or visit http://www.metrojacksonheartwalk.org.