On Feb. 3, we wear red not to attract the attention of bulls, but to attract the attention of the public to stand in solidarity with victims of heart disease. This year marks the 14th annual National Wear Red Day established by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. According to the American Heart Association, even though heart disease affects both men and women, it takes the lives of nearly 500,000 American women each year, making it the number one disease-related cause of death for women.
The main problem with cardiovascular disease is that there isn’t a lot of awareness of it. According to the American College of Cardiology, 45 percent of women were unaware that heart disease is the number one cause of death in women. With that in mind, the AHA created the social initiative, “Go Red For Women,” to encourage women of all ages to take control of their heart health. Through videos, testimonials and other platforms, AHA uses this movement to encourage women to come together and fight heart disease by challenging them to be aware of their health and take action to prevent future risks of heart disease.
The AHA believes the best way to prevent heart disease is to have annual visits with your physician; AHA calls these “Well-Women Visits.” This way, your doctor can check your overall health and address any risk factors that can lead to heart disease.
It’s important to remember that heart disease does not discriminate based on age, race, lifestyle choices or genetics. Heart disease can affect anyone at any time in their life, which is why it’s important to check with your doctor annually.
Once you meet with your doctor, it’s important to encourage others to do the same. Being an advocate of heart health could save lives. Don’t just reach out to family and friends to encourage heart health and annual check-ups; reach out to your local community and legislators by banding together with local women and standing up against inequality of health insurance programs.
All people should have the option to stay heart healthy and prevent future risk factors, which means they should be able to access affordable health care if an issue arises. By supporting the “Go Red For Women” movement through local groups and organizations by helping to fundraise and collect donations, you can help make sure that those who can’t afford simple health care procedures get the assistance they need.
Wearing Red on Feb. 3 encourages women fighting this disease to stay strong and may help spark conversations which inspire other women who unaware of their risks to take the next step. On this day, this color is more than just an attractive, bright hue; it makes a statement to be an advocate for heart health and urges the world to stand up for women’s health.
AHA’s 7 Tips to Prevent Heart Disease:
- Stay active
Regular physical activity can enhance your immune system and decrease the risk of developing diseases. It also improves blood circulation, managing weight, stress levels and boosting energy.
2. Control cholesterol
When cholesterol is under control, it keeps your arteries clear of blockage. When you keep your arteries clear it prevents heart disease and stroke.
3. Maintain a healthy diet
Make sure to add veggies, fruit, whole grains and lean meats into your meals. Try using a food diary to ensure you are adding in all the necessary nutrients.
4. Control blood pressure
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. In healthy ranges, you reduce the strain on your heart, arteries and kidneys.
5. Maintain a healthy weight
People who are overweight have a higher risk of heart problems. Losing a few pounds can reduce those risk factors and help maintain a healthy body.
6. Reduce sugar intake
Your body turns sugar into glucose which carries energy throughout your cells. If it’s too high it can cause diseases like diabetes. Reducing the consumption of simple sugars like soda, candy and desserts can help.
7. Stop smoking
Smokers have a high risk of cardiovascular disease. Smoking damages your entire circulatory system and increases risks of hardened arteries, aneurysms and blood clots.
Visit goredforwomen.org to learn more about resources, risk factors and other tips to live a healthy lifestyle. If you want to get involved on campus, participate in the February Saturday of Service with SLCE on Feb. 3 for heart disease and breast cancer awareness from 7:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Contact Student Leadership and Civic Engagement for additional information.
