National Go Red Day
Today is National Wear Red Day and I’m doing my best to spread the “Go Red” message. Heart disease is the number one killer of women (and men) and in February, American Heart Month, the nation comes together for a common goal: the eradication of heart disease and stroke.
The first Friday of February, we wear red to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease and help save lives .
Launched in 2004 by the American Heart Association as an awareness campaign, Go Red has grown significantly into an international movement and become a platform for real change.
I’m grateful for the past 18 years, working with the American Heart Association and being a part of their mission; educating and empowering women to take charge of their hearts and their health. Why? Because losing even one woman to cardiovascular disease is too many.
High blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and smoking are key risk factors for heart disease.
Several other medical conditions and lifestyle choices can also put people at a higher risk for heart disease, including:
Diabetes
Overweight and obesity
Unhealthy diet
Physical inactivity
Excessive alcohol use
Exercise and healthy eating are just a few ways to take care of yourself. It’s important to take all the possible preventive measures to ensure a healthy, strong heart. You always up your chances of remaining healthy if you:
Live tobacco-free
Maintain a healthy weight
Properly and constantly take any prescribed medications
Reduce stress
Show yourself some love by being proactive in the prevention of heart disease. What are you going to do on this day to make one change in your life to take care of your heart?