Today is “Go Red” day in promotion of women’s heart health! The American Heart Association launched “Go Red” to educate the public about the impact of cardiovascular disease on women. Coronary heart disease, which causes heart attack, is the single leading cause of death for American women. Nearly twice as many women in the United States die of heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases as from all forms of cancer, including breast cancer. This is something that I didn’t learn until last year when I volunteered at the Macy’s Go Red for Women Luncheon. Statistics like this should be more than enough to encourage each us of to ensure that we are living our healthiest life possible.

Know what factors raise your risk and take the Heart Checkup. The Heart Checkup asks you a series of questions, and assesses your risk for cardiovascular disease. If you have a low risk, then keep it that way by incorporating a healthy diet and exercise plan into your lifestyle. If you are at high risk, still do those things but also visit your doctor for a check-up and to develop a plan to address those risk factors.

You can read inspiring stories, learn more about the disease, and find events in your area by visiting goredforwomen.org!

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