CHICAGO – This Friday, House Assistant Minority Leader Brad Stephens (R-Rosemont) is wearing red for Go Red for Women to increase women’s heart health awareness. Go Red for Women is an initiative of the American Heart Association and is designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally.
“While we see lots of hearts around us as we approach Valentine’s Day, February also marks American Heart Month,” said Leader Stephens. “Heart disease was the leading cause of death for women in the U.S. in 2020, affecting the women we love in our lives. I encourage everyone to wear red today and spread the word on taking charge of your heart health—man or woman—to live long, healthy lives.”
According to Go Red for Women, the more a woman knows about heart disease, the better chance she has of beating it. Heart disease and stroke cause 1 in 3 deaths among women each year; this is more than all cancers combined. However, 80% of cardiac and stroke events may be prevented with education and action. Cardiovascular disease is also the number one killer of new moms. Most stroke and cardiac events can be prevented through lifestyle changes and education, like moving more, eating smart, and managing blood pressure.
The American Heart Association recommends some tips to “Go Red at Work” throughout the month from the office or home. These include:
- Making an office playlist to get employees moving or manage stress.
- Get up and move throughout the day.
- Hold a healthy eating challenge.
- Have a cooking demonstration.
- Ask employees to share how they’re supporting their cardiovascular health this month.
Women can find additional information by visiting GoRedforWomen.org. Men and women can visit Heart.org to learn more as well.