February 3 – National Wear Red Day

February 3rd is Wear Red Day! This day was created to show support and bring awareness to heart disease, the number one killer of women in the United States. Wearing red to show solidarity can have a big impact on raising awareness and reducing the stigma associated with heart disease. By wearing red, you’ll not only help spread the word about this cause but you’ll also be setting a powerful example of putting health first. Let’s all join together on February 3rd and wear red to help fight heart disease!

HISTORY OF WEAR RED DAY

National Wear Red Day began as a nationwide campaign initiated by the American Heart Association and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute to spread knowledge of what remains the leading cause of death among women in the United States. Initially, they focused on educating media outlets and healthcare providers around this silent killer and started showcasing thought leaders in the area through public service campaigns. Fundraising also became an important factor for Wear Red Day as it helps female victims gain access to better treatments for their condition. Since its inception, millions have proudly donned red garments to recognize heart disease awareness each February.

FIVE THINGS ABOUT WOMEN AND HEART DISEASE

Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the world, and many are unaware of their risk.
Recent statistics reveal that 64% of women who die suddenly from coronary heart disease had no prior symptoms.d
42% of women now 20 years or older have some form of cardiovascular disease, and 90% don’t realize it.
Nearly half of all African American women have some form of heart disease due to higher levels of stress and undiagnosed conditions such as high blood pressure.
Only 13% of women correctly identify heart disease as the top cause of death for female compared to its true rate – 1 in 4 deaths – according to the American Heart Association.

HOW TO CELEBRATE WEAR RED DAY