Heart Health: Why Go Red For Women & American Heart Month Matter
“Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women, causing 1 in 3 deaths each year. It’s a third of our mothers, sisters, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and more. It’s a third of the women we can’t bear to live without.” GoRedForWomen.org
Heart Health: Why Go Red For Women & American Heart Month Matter
Up to 2.4 million Americans alive today have some form of congenital heart defect. This means they were born with heart disease. Of these people, about 1 million are children and 1.4 million are adults. Critical Congenital Heart Disease accounts for 25% of infant deaths. Pulse oximetry screening is a low-cost, effective, and painless test for newborns
Go Red For Women/American Heart Month: This Friday, February 6th, is National Wear Red Day. How is your heart health? Do you know anyone who has had a heart attack or suffers from heart disease? Do you know anyone who suddenly passed away from an attack? I do, and I almost did. Since 1984, more women than men have died from heart disease and stroke. Whether we choose to take care of our health or stay in denial, the fact is that each of us will be affected by heart issues; it could happen to a friend, a family member, or to us. This is one of the fundamental reasons why Go Red For Women & American Heart Month matter. They matter because of the research, tips, alarm bells they sound, and the education they provide to help us save lives. It saved my life!
My Personal Journey: In 1999, my life took an unexpected turn. I was a young mother of 5-year-old twin girls, living in Westchester and teaching at Hunter College in NYC. I had always exercised, had quit smoking many, many years before, plus I was a yoga/meditation enthusiast and a vegetarian. So why was I feeling breathless and out of sorts? Why was I having more irregular heartbeats? Was it anxiety attacks or work stress? Was I imagining all of this? The fact is that I wasn’t experiencing any work-related stress, but I was trying to find answers to help me understand what was going on.
In the United States, 59 percent of Black women over the age of 20 have some form of Cardiovascular disease – CVD, compared with 43 percent of Hispanic American women, 43 percent of Asian American women, and 42 percent of White women (Exhibit 4).33 American Indian and Native Alaskan women have a prevalence of type 2 diabetes—up to 72 percent in some communities—that’s three times higher than that of White American women. GoRedForWomen.org
What were the signs? Initially, I ignored the dizzy spells and shortness of breath, putting them down to classroom stress. I needed a reason, but in retrospect, I wasn’t dealing with any stress at work. Over time, I felt tired when walking up the stairs at home, so I visited my doctor and got checked out. The focus was not on my heart, as I did not think I “fit” the typical profile of a candidate for heart failure. Even though there was a family history of heart disease – my dad died suddenly of an attack, and my mom had a massive stroke and never recovered fully – I believed that because I lived a healthy lifestyle, I was not a classic case study for heart failure. The tests didn’t show anything significant, but I continued to feel out of sorts. My doctor ordered more tests, and nothing unusual came up. I continued to feel fatigued and, eventually, I was sent to a cardiologist. The cardiologist ran additional tests and finally decided to refer me to another specialist.
By November, I was referred to a children’s heart specialist, and he diagnosed heart failure. I needed open-heart surgery right away. I found out I was born with a congenital heart defect and had a rip/hole in my heart. One of my valves needed replacing, and I might need a pacemaker. My surgery was successful. Fortunately for me, I can say … I am a survivor. But many other women we know haven’t been so fortunate. According to research on the subject, 1 in 3 women will die of a heart condition. Don’t become a statistic. An important point I want to address is that not all heart issues are stress-related. Some people are born with undiagnosed heart conditions and, unless you are attentive to how you feel and persist in getting medical help, you might never find out.
READ:
Motivation 2020: Heart to Heart
Heart Matters: 7 Heart-Healthy Tips
Heart Matters: An Interview w/ Dr Gary H Gibbons of NHLBI
Continued Below
“Heart disease kills 7 times more women every year in America than all cancers combined; that’s why we really need to do something to inform women and to empower them.” Susan Lucci
Heart Health: Why Go Red For Women & American Heart Month Matter
Did you know that more than 1 out of 3 women is living with cardiovascular disease (CVD), and CVD is the leading cause of death in the U.S? The U.S. could gain an additional $28 billion in GDP by 2040 by closing the heart health gap between men and women. According to a GoRedForWomen Report, closing the women’s health gap will require action on the following five fronts:
1. Advance sex-specific research
2. Improve routine health data collection and treatment algorithms
3. Equip healthcare providers across the care continuum
4. Raise public awareness and tailor prevention strategies across all life stages
5. Invest in businesses and initiatives that further women’s heart health
When was the last time you had a check-up? No matter what our backgrounds or personal histories include, we are susceptible to illness and know folks struggling with health concerns. We take steps to prolong our lives by scheduling all our necessary appointments. TODAY. Don’t let fear of the unknown stop you from getting the help you need. Putting off routine check-ups can make the difference between an early diagnosis and an early demise. Check in with loved ones about their health needs and reach out to others and encourage them to do the same.
Here are 10 other facts you need to know about women and cardiovascular disease:
1. Cardiovascular disease kills more women than all forms of cancer combined and yet only 44% of women recognize that cardiovascular disease is their greatest health threat.
2. Among females 20 years and older, nearly 45% are living with some form of cardiovascular disease and less than 50% of women entering pregnancy in the United States have good heart health.
3. Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of new moms and accounts for over on-third of maternal deaths. Black women have some of the highest maternal mortality rates.
4. Overall, 10% to 20% of women will have a health issue during pregnancy, and high blood pressure, preeclampsia and gestational diabetes during pregnancy greatly increase a women’s risk for developing cardiovascular disease later in life.
5. Going through menopause does not cause cardiovascular disease, but the approach of menopause marks a point in midlife when women’s cardiovascular risk factors can accelerate, making increased focus on health during this pivotal life stage is crucial.
6. Most cardiac and stroke events can be prevented through education and lifestyle changes, such as moving more, eating smart and managing blood pressure.
7. 51.9% of high blood pressure deaths, otherwise known as hypertension or the “silent killer,” are in women, and out of all women, 57.6% of Black females have hypertension — more than any other race or ethnicity.
8. While there are an estimated 4.1 million female stroke survivors living today, approximately 57.5% of total stroke deaths are in women.
9. Women are often less likely to receive bystander CPR because rescuers often fear accusations of inappropriate touching, sexual assault or injuring the victim.
10. Women continue to be underrepresented in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields, as well as in research. In fact, women occupy nearly half of all U.S. jobs (48%), but only 27% of jobs in STEM fields. Furthermore, only 38% of participants in clinical cardiovascular trials are women.goredforwomen.org
GET CHECKED OUT!
READ:
Heart Matters: National Wear Red Day
Heart Health: #WomensLives & Go Red For Women
The Heart Truth®: Take #RelaytheRed Pledge
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“As a result of studying populations over time, we’ve understood what the risk factors are for heart disease or what predisposes people to have a heart attack … There are things that women can empower themselves to do just by having more knowledge and information. “Dr. Gary H Gibbons
Heart Health: Why Go Red For Women & American Heart Month Matter
What can we do about it? First, we must reduce stress in our lives, adopt a healthy lifestyle, and get regular check-ups. We can donate or volunteer our time and participate in local events that raise awareness about heart disease. Again, as with all diseases at the national level, we can reach out to our elected officials to ensure they support funding and equitable resources for all. Learn more from the American Heart Association and Go Red For Women. Wear red on Friday in support of all women. Join in to learn about local initiatives and educate the women and girls in your family and life. Share information about women’s heart health on social media using hashtags like #GoRedForWomen, #WearRedDay, and #AmericanHeartMonth.
Heart-Healthy Recommendations
Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.
Dietary Changes: Reduce intake of processed foods, salt, and saturated fats.
Preventive Care: Schedule regular check-ups with healthcare providers to monitor for and manage cardiovascular risk factors.
Manage Stress: Use techniques such as meditation or yoga to help keep blood pressure within a healthy range.
According to the Go Red for Women Campaign, you must
What are you waiting for? Get your heart health in order and share your insights with the world. What are your thoughts?
READ:
National Women’s Health Week: 5 Health Tips from #RelaytheRed & #NWHW
Heart Health: Why Go Red For Women & American Heart Month Matter
National Wear Red Day®: Join The #HeartChat
For More: Women’s Lives & Issues
Positive Motivation Tip: The heart is the center of all we do. Take care of yours and make sure your family does too.
More Wellness Boosters/Affirmations & Resources
PHOTO CREDITS/ATTRIBUTIONS: Photos from Go Red, The Heart Truth, Infographics via NWHW, Pixabay, Wikipedia, and/or my Personal Collection.
Until Next Time…
Ask. Believe. Receive. ©
Elizabeth Obih-Frank
Mirth and Motivation
Positive Kismet
Wearing red on Friday is a powerful way to remind everyone that health issues often hide behind healthy habits. Your persistence with those doctors really highlights why we have to trust our gut feelings
True. We have to learn to become advocates for our own health. The medical profession has lots of exceptional doctors and many appreciate collaborating with patients to ensure maximum effort is made to address health concerns. I was very fortunate to have such doctors on my side.
This is so true! I think it’s important for us, especially women to always seek a second opinon or to advocate for ourselves. Such an inspirational story!
Thank you Ebony. I concur. While everyone deserves equal treatment where healthcare is concerned, we know that is not the case. We have to learn to speak up and seek a 2nd or 3rd opinion if feasible.
Thank you for highlighting how heart health conversations often centered on men. Reading this made me think about my mum and sisters and how easy it is to brush off tiredness or discomfort. Wearing red feels like a small thing, but the message behind it matters a lot.
True. the message is the magic. When we use vivid visuals to prompt a response, it can help remind people to act. My prayer is that more women will pay attention to their heart health and not brush things off so readily.
I really appreciate how this post shines a light on the importance of women’s heart health, especially given that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death for women and many aren’t aware of that risk. The emphasis on awareness, prevention, and actionable steps, from knowing your numbers to spreading the message with the Go Red for Women movement, makes heart month feel meaningful, not just symbolic. It’s the kind of thoughtful reminder that looking after your heart isn’t just personal wellness, it’s a way of caring for the people you love too.
Exactly. It is a subject that every woman should pay attention to because it is not always easy to detect. When we read about healthy, able bodied athletes suddenly dropping dead from a heart attack, it is because it is not always detectable. Regular check ups and being attentive to sudden changes in our heart health are key to getting help.
I didn’t realize that heart issues were so prevalent in women, but it’s good to keep in mind. Luckily, we don’t have many heart issues in my family so far. It’s a good thing you kept at it and got yours checked!
Thank you. It is prevalent in women, sadly, and considered a silent killer because our symptoms are not always typical like what we see on TV shows….
I love this, and I strongly believe in supporting the Wear Red for Women movement during American Heart Month. It’s so important to stay on top of your annual physicals to make sure your heart is healthy. Being mindful of what you eat truly makes a difference when it comes to heart health, and adding some form of daily exercise is just as essential. Taking small, consistent steps can go a long way in protecting your heart.
Indeed true. Even more so is to not ignore symptoms even if you think you don’t fit the “type.” Congenital Birth Defects can kill even the fittest athletes so being attentive to our bodies is imperative.
Heart health is something that is so important to keep in mind especially as we age. It is nice to see a an initiative for increasing awareness.
Yes, Go Red For Women had been very successful at drawing attention to heart disease in women and they have helped so many of us act quickly.
This is really interesting, I did not realize the statistics! I’m so glad I came across this useful information especially as a nurse, this is very helpful!
I’m glad this resonated with you, Angela, especially as you probably have come across such cases at work. Thank you for serving in the medical community.
I think most people worldwide now have had a friend or family member that has been affected by cardiovascular disease these days due to it’s prevalence. I can imagine it would have been such a shock for you to find out that you needed heart surgery. I’m so glad to hear that it was caught in time. It’s important to share your experience with others so they don’t overlook symptoms and put them down to stress etc.
Exactly. What is equally shocking is that symptoms in women are not always predictable. They could appear ordinary yet deadly.
Thank you for sharing your story and for reminding to us to take action. I am just so guilty that I have been putting off getting checked because of my fear. I have been experiencing some symptoms and after reading this, I realized that I shouldn’t delay it further.
Yes, it would be wise to not put it off. I’m glad this was a little nudge to help you take the necessary action. Wishing you well.
Sharing your personal journey about those early warning signs is a powerful way to remind us all to listen to our bodies. These statistics about heart disease really put the necessity of regular checkups into perspective.
Yes and thank you. I am very grateful that I received the care and treatment I needed.
Thanks for sharing your story. I have no idea about these stats related to heart health, it’s really a wake-up call to pay attention, and make our annual checks with no excuses.
Indeed it is. Regular check ups are life saving.
I really appreciate how this post shines a light on heart health in a way that feels both empowering and urgent, especially by connecting the Go Red for Women movement to real awareness and action. The reminder that heart disease remains the number one killer of women and that education and lifestyle choices can make a real difference gives the message depth and purpose beyond just wearing red. Writing like this doesn’t just inform, it encourages readers to pause, reflect, and take ownership of their well being during American Heart Month.
Thank you. I agree that information sharing is a fast and crucial way to reach the masses of women who need to hear it. I hope more would listen to theur hearts.
This is a big one. Heart disease claims a lot of women lives, and it presents in a totally different way than it does for me. It’s so dangerous.
Yes, it is very dangerous for women and a silent killer. Sadly, many women stay uninformed. We need to get the word out.
Hearing about your experience in Westchester makes me think about how health scares often happen when life feels busiest. Those twins probably kept you moving while you searched for real answers about that breathlessness.
Hahaha so true. My kids kept be determined to fight for my life and health.
It’s great that you are raising awareness about the importance of heart health. I’ll be checking out the links you posted.
Sure. Let me know what you find and your insights.
Thank you for sharing your personal journey so openly. Your story is such a powerful reminder that symptoms don’t always look “typical,” especially for women.
That is so true and we tend to overlook our needs as we care for so many family members.
Thank you so much for sharing your story, it will undoubtedly motivate women out there to take action and protect their cardiac and overall health. Personal stories are so powerful.
Thank you! I find personal stories inspiring too.