Simi Valley Hospital to sponsor START! program

The Ventura County Division of the American Heart Association recently announced that Simi Valley Hospital will sponsor the association's new START! program in Ventura County.

START! is a national movement that encourages employers and their employees to take up walking and other healthy habits as part of their daily routine to live longer, stronger lives.

In a 2005 survey, 60 percent of corporate CEOs cited healthcare as their top cost pressure. By promoting a culture of physical activity corporate America can decrease healthcare costs, increase productivity and improve quality of life and longevity among the workforce.

Studies have shown that adults can gain two hours of life expectancy for each hour of regular exercise, and walking for as little as 30 minutes a day provides heart health benefits.

In recognition of Simi Valley Hospital's commitment, the association's signature annual fundraising event, "Heart Walk 2007," will be moved to Simi Valley in September.