To dispel the myths and raise awareness of heart disease & stroke as the number one killer of women, the American Heart Association created Go Red For Women, a passionate, emotional, social initiative designed to empower women to take charge of their heart health. This week’s Friday Five highlights the initiative, explains why it’s important, and offers ways for readers to participate and Go Red for Women.
- G: GET YOUR NUMBERS
Ask your doctor to check your blood pressure and cholesterol. - O: OWN YOUR LIFESTYLE
Stop smoking, lose weight, exercise, and eat healthy.
It’s up to you. No one can do it for you. - R: REALIZE YOUR RISK
We think it won’t happen to us, but heart disease kills one of three women. - E: EDUCATE YOUR FAMILY
Make healthy food choices for you and your family.
Teach your kids the importance of staying active. - D: DON’T BE SILENT
Tell every woman you know that heart disease is our No. 1 killer.
About Heart Disease in Women
Cardiovascular disease, including stroke, is the leading cause of death for women and affects nearly half of women ages 20 and older—yet many remain unaware of this serious health risk. The good news is that much of cardiovascular disease is preventable through education, recognizing the signs and symptoms, and making healthy lifestyle choices, empowering women to take action and protect their heart health. AHA provides the latest facts, statistics and information.
4 ways you can support women’s heart health on National Wear Red Day 2026
Nearly half of women in the U.S. have some form of cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke – a figure that is only expected to grow. To raise awareness of the fight against cardiovascular disease in women – their number one killer — people from coast to coast will wear red and landmarks across the U.S. will illuminate in support of National Wear Red Day®, February 6, 2026. Through its Go Red for Women® movement, nationally sponsored by CVS Health, the American Heart Association®, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on changing the future of health for all, urges everyone to take action during American Heart Month in February to support women’s heart health in four ways.
4 ways you can support women’s heart health on National Wear Red Day 2026https://t.co/kour8pLCnq
— American Heart News (@HeartNews) February 5, 2026
Know Your Numbers
It is vital for all women to understand their personal risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Knowing your risk starts with knowing four important health numbers — total cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, and body mass index. Having these numbers in check and at healthy levels can reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke.
Healthy for Good
Visit the Go Red for Women website and sign up to be a part of the Healthy for Good™ movement. If you sign up with your email you get a free 10 Under 10: Easy Winter Meals (and More!) digital recipe booklet while supplies last! I signed up and can’t wait to make some of the easy, healthy meals in the booklet.
Why We Focus Research on Women
There are significant biological differences between men and women, and research should reflect those differences. That’s why the AHA is committed to funding research focused on women.
ICYMI – Our other Friday Fives.
