The American Heart Association in Philadelphia Goes Red for Heart Month
Wear Red and Join the Fight Against Heart Disease & Stroke on February 4, 2022.
Philadelphia, PA, February 2022 – The American Heart Association is asking for the public’s support this February by going red and giving back to participate in American Heart Month, which kicks off Friday, February 4th.
Why Go Red? Cardiovascular diseases kill nearly 1 in 3 women each year, killing approximately one woman every 80 seconds. Fortunately, we can change that because a majority of cardiac and stroke events may be prevented with education and action.
High blood pressure, diabetes, overweight or obesity, eating an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and drinking too much alcohol, and smoking are key risk factors for heart disease. About half of all people in the United States (47%) have at least one of these three risk factors.
People living in neighborhoods with physical and socioeconomic disadvantages are at higher risk for hypertension, stroke, and coronary artery disease. Within Philadelphia, hypertension rates vary across neighborhoods. The AHA’s goal is to establish public funding for targeted programs that address the high prevalence of hypertension in the city of Philadelphia, and its surrounding counties.
“I am honored and inspired by the work of the American Heart Association & Go Red for Women”, says Stephanie Conners, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Jefferson Health and the 2021-22 Go Red for Women Chair. “The AHA has done important work to support heart health and well-being in the Philadelphia community. I am proud to stand with these efforts both professionally and personally and know that with more education and funding we can help everyone in our community live longer, healthier lives.”
“Our work supports the advancement of transformational research initiatives and educational programs in our local community to help people lead longer, healthier lives. This year’s campaign will focus on the importance of women making their health and wellness a priority, with an emphasis on wellness at work. The Go Red for Women campaign is driven to help prevent and fight heart disease, the leading cause of death in women in the United States” said Earnestine Walker, Greater Philadelphia American Heart Association Executive Director.
That’s why we ask that you wear red throughout February to encourage women to make the time to “Know Your Numbers”, which include: cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, and body mass index (BMI). It’s knowledge that could save their life.
To learn more, please visit GoRedForWomen.org
#GoRedAndGive #HeartMonth #PhillyGoesRed
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About Go Red for Women
The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women® movement is the trusted, passionate, relevant force for change to end heart disease and stroke in women all over the world. While nearly 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For 15 years, Go Red for Women has provided a platform for women to come together, raise awareness, fund life-saving research, advocate for change and improve the lives of all women everywhere. The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. Connect with us on GoRedforWomen.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-888-MY-HEART (1- 888-694-3278).
For Media Inquiries:
Theresa Spencer: 267-997-3354; [email protected]
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org