#GoRedWearRed

I wish I could say that this week’s blog is dedicated to someone very dear to me, but actually this week’s blog was inspired by many people who are dear to me, and the sad truth of how that’s even possible makes sense once you understand the statistics.

Today is National Wear Red Day®. The American Heart Association (AHA) is encouraging everyone to wear red to raise awareness for the fight against heart disease and stroke, the #1 & #5 killers of Americans. In fact, more than 800,000 people in the U.S. die from heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases each year – that’s a staggering 2,200 people every day.

The good news? Over the past fifteen years, National Wear Red Day has accomplished a lot! Since its inception, nearly 90% of American women have made at least one healthy change to their lifestyle. It is reported that:

• 40% have had their cholesterol levels checked

• 50% have increased their activity & exercise levels

• 60% have made healthy improvements to their diet

And the result? Over the past ten years, 30% fewer women have lost their lives to heart disease. So it’s time to ask: what are you doing?

While some factors, such as your family health history (heredity) can’t be controlled, 80% of cardiovascular disease may be prevented through education and healthy habits such as controlling cholesterol levels; being physically active for at least thirty (30) minutes per day, five (5) days per week; eating right; and absolutely not smoking.

Now’s the time to schedule a visit with your healthcare provider to learn what your personal health numbers are, including your blood pressure, total cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, blood sugar, and BMI (body mass index). Your doctor can assess your risk for heart disease and stroke, and talk with you about making heart healthy changes to your daily habits and lifestyle.

We thank everyone who is helping to raise awareness by wearing red today, fundraising &/or donating to the AHA. Don’t forget to share photos of how you’re supporting the cause with the hashtag #GoRedWearRed.