Happy American Heart Month! Did you know that heart disease is the number one killer of women, killing more women than all forms of cancer combined? This Friday is National Wear Red Day, when the nation comes together to go red to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease and save lives. This annual event unites millions of people for a common goal: the eradication of heart disease and stroke!
As a heart disease survivor myself, this topic is near and dear to me, and together we can make a difference! I want to share some information that might help you avoid becoming a victim of cardiovascular disease. Check out this video from the Go Red for Women Luncheon for three stories of survival, including my own.
1 in 3 women die of heart disease and stroke each year. But 80% of heart disease is preventable with lifestyle changes. Join the movement to end heart disease and stroke in women by going red. Here is how the American Heart Association encourages us to GO RED:
Get your numbers- Ask your doctor to check your blood pressure and cholesterol, and to tell you the actual numbers!
Own your lifestyle- Stop smoking, manage stress, lose weight, exercise, get enough sleep and eat healthy! Your heart health is in your hands.
Realize your risk - Know your family history of heart disease, and understand your risk factors.
Educate your family - Make healthy food choices, and teach your kids the importance of staying active and eating well.
Don't be silent - Tell every woman you know that heart disease is our #1 killer! Also, learn and share the symptoms of heart attack and stroke in women.
Want to learn more? Take the My Life Check online to assess and track your heart health information and gain a better understanding of your risk of heart disease and stroke. Join us on Friday by going red!