Heart disease knows no boundaries. It is the leading cause of death in the United States-among both men and women. In fact, one woman dies every minute of heart disease, nearly half a million women each year. [1] To demonstrate its commitment and help call attention to this critical health issue, Smart Start Healthy Heart brand is launching a major heart health initiative in 2006, which includes providing national support for the American Heart Association's Go Red For Women movement. This initiative includes the launch of Smart Start Healthy Heart Maple Brown Sugar, free health screenings and community events, and retail promotions.

Most people who suffer from heart disease are affected by its two leading risk factors: high blood pressure and high cholesterol. New Smart Start Healthy Heart Maple Brown Sugar is the latest addition to the Smart Start Healthy Heart line, designed to help Americans who are actively seeking ways to improve their health. Featuring oat bran, potassium and low sodium, Smart Start Healthy Heart is the only national cold cereal with ingredients that may help lower both blood pressure and cholesterol. The cereal has been certified by the American Heart Association's Food Certification program.

Kellogg Company's 100-year heritage is based on the philosophy that people can improve their health through a healthy diet and regular exercise. Medical experts agree that there are simple steps that people can take to reduce their risks of heart disease, including making changes to their diets.

"Heart disease is affecting women at a crisis proportion," said Dr. Annabelle Santos Volgman, Director, Rush Heart Center for Women, Rush University Medical Center. "I'm pleased that Smart Start Healthy Heart is not only taking a leadership role on the issue, but is also offering an excellent product that helps address two of the leading risk factors for heart disease - high blood pressure and cholesterol."

Smart Start Healthy Heart Maple Brown Sugar is now available nationwide just in time for February, American Heart Month, when the nation is most focused on ways to improve heart health.

About Kellogg Company

With 2005 sales in excess of $10 billion, Kellogg Company (NYSE:K) is the world's leading producer of cereal and a leading producer of convenience foods, including cookies, crackers, toaster pastries, cereal bars, frozen waffles, meat alternatives, piecrusts, and ice cream cones. The company's brands include Kellogg's, Keebler, Pop-Tarts, Eggo, Cheez-It, Nutri-Grain, Rice Krispies, Murray, Austin, Morningstar Farms, Famous Amos, Carr's, Plantation, Ready Crust, and Kashi. Kellogg products are manufactured in 17 countries and marketed in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information, visit Kellogg's web site at kelloggcompany

[1] American Heart Association. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics - 2006 Update.

SOURCE: rogerspr