In Oxford County, 1 in every 5 people has cardiovascular disease. This includes heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and hardening of the arteries. Research has identified poor diet, especially high levels of fat consumption; physical inactivity and tobacco use as three major modifiable risk factors for heart disease. In Ontario, 75% of adults ages 18 to 74 have at least one of these risk factors.

The Oxford Heart Health Network, a not-for-profit organization, is a co-ordinated effort between community agencies and community volunteers who have an interest in reducing heart disease in Oxford County. The network is involved in many activities in a variety of settings including worksites, schools, restaurants, and the community in general. These activities form the "Whole Hearted Living" project.

The symbol used in Oxford to represent the Whole Hearted Living project is shown below. It includes four sections. The heart symbolizes a healthy heart; the sun symbolizes smoke free air; the footsteps symbolize physical activity and the apple symbolizes healthy eating.