“Go Red for Women” Friday, February 7

by Amy Rolfs, RN, Cardiac Rehab Nurse, VMH

Our Cardiac Rehab Program at Veterans Memorial Hospital (VMH) is proud to support ‘Go Red for Women Day’ Friday, February 7. The American Heart Association has designated this first Friday in February, National Heart Month, to raise awareness of cardiovascular disease in women.

Cardiovascular disease is the number-one killer of women. This important day emphasizes the need for women to prioritize their heart health through risk factor awareness, lifestyle modifications and early detection.

Raising awareness for cardiovascular disease in women is critical because it is often underdiagnosed and misunderstood. Many women are unaware of their risk, and symptoms can present differently in women than in men, leading to delays in seeking care.

Heart disease and stroke claim the lives of one in three women, yet research indicates that 80% of cardiovascular events can be prevented through education and lifestyle changes. By spreading awareness, we empower women to recognize warning signs, advocate for their health, and seek preventive care that could save their lives.

Join us in wearing red and spreading the message that together, we can take steps to improve women’s heart health and save lives.

For more information, go to www.goredforwomen.org or call the Veterans Memorial Hospital Cardiac Rehabilitation Department at 563-568-3411.