Follow and join the conversation with #GoRedForWomen, #GoRedWearRed, and #GoRed.

Heart disease is often thought of as an older man’s disease and therefore dismissed as a concern by many women.  In 2004 the American Heart Association (AHA) realized that cardiovascular disease claimed the lives of almost 500,000 women and took more women’s lives than all of the cancers put together!  In order to clear the air and raise awareness the AHA created Go Red For Women (@GoRedForWomen), “a passionate, emotional, social initiative designed to empower women to take charge of their heart health.”

Go Red For Women
Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women causing 1 in 3 deaths among women each year, taking approximately one woman every 80 seconds.  Go Red For Women wants to change this knowing that 80% of cardiac deaths may be prevented through education and action.  All funds raised through the Go Red For Women campaign support research, awareness, education, and community programs that benefit women. According to the AHA a women who “Goes Red” eats a healthier diet, exercises, schedules Well Woman Visits to her doctor, and influences others by talking about heart health.

The red dress
Red is said to be the color of energy, passion, and action.  It is also the color of our hearts.  It is no surprise then that the American Heart Association chose this color to represent their cause.  In 2003, The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) introduced the red dress as a national symbol for women and heart disease awareness.  The AHA and several other organizations soon followed suit and adopted the red dress as well to create unity among all of these organizations fighting for a common cause.

Awareness Day 
National Wear Red Day is held on the first Friday in February every year. Participants wear red to raise awareness about women and heart disease. Visit www.goredforwomen.org for more information.

Get Involved 
To celebrate National Wear Red Day 2016 at your organization, visit Go Red For Women where will find a list of ideas and some resources to help get you started.  You can also visit this link if you are interested in donating to the cause or starting a fundraiser.