Heart disease is the number one killer of American women. That’s the heartfelt message the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) is trying to get across to all women through The Heart Truth® campaign. Although women between 40 and 60 are most at risk, younger generations should also take heed and begin to focus on preventative measures.
Heart disease has many risk factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, being overweight, inactivity and family history. Women of color are especially at high risk for developing heart disease. Coronary heart disease is a disorder of the blood vessels of the heart, which can ultimately result in a heart attack. Think heart disease is no big deal? Think again, because even though there may be treatment, there’s no cure. Complications can even include permanent disability.
That’s why efforts to increase awareness about women and heart disease like The Heart Truth® are so vital. The multi-faceted campaign recently released a video, “Heart Attack Warning Symptoms” to highlight warning signs. There also are events planned throughout February, which is National Heart Disease Awareness Month.
Garcelle Beauvais in Monique Lhuillier and Cat Deeley in Alberta Ferretti, Red Dress Fashion Show 2011
During New York Fashion Week, The Heart Truth® will host its annual Red Dress Collection Fashion Show on February 8 (enter to win 2 tickets!). The First Ladies Red Dress Collection exhibit showcases red gowns along with ensembles donned by various First Ladies and will once again be on display this February. Keep on the lookout for The Heart Truth Road Show, which brings health education and heart disease risk factor screenings to at-risk populations across America. Get ready to break out that favorite red dress, skirt, or accessory for National Wear Red Day on Friday, February 3. Participants can even take part by signing The Heart Truth‘s activity registry.
For more information or to get involved in the campaign, visit hearttruth.gov.
