In 2003, the American Heart Association and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute took action against a disease that was claiming the lives of nearly 500,000 American women each year – a disease that women weren’t paying attention to. A disease they truly believed, and many still believe to this day, affects more men than women.
Stemming from that action, National Wear Red Day was born. It’s held on the first Friday in February every year to raise awareness about heart disease being the No. 1 killer of women.
National Wear Red Day, Feb. 6, marks the 12-year anniversary, and tremendous strides have been made. They include:
- Nearly 90 percent of women have made at least one healthy behavior change.
- More than one-third of women have lost weight.
- More than 50 percent of women have increased their exercise.
- 6 out of 10 women have changed their diets.
- More than 40 percent of women have checked their cholesterol levels.
- One third of women have talked with their doctors about developing heart health plans.
Everyone is encouraged to wear red, Go Red, or paint their community red, and then share pictures using #GoRedSelfie through Feb. 28 to get involved. Interested parties can also start a National Wear Red Day® Fundraiser to show support.
