On the first Friday of every February, the nation comes together to observe American Heart Month, an important initiative that emphasizes the importance of cardiovascular health. Led by the American Heart Association (AHA), this month-long awareness campaign is committed to educating the public about heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. …
On the first Friday of every February, the nation comes together to observe American Heart Month, an important initiative that emphasizes the importance of cardiovascular health. Led by the American Heart Association (AHA), this month-long awareness campaign is committed to educating the public about heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. A key component to this initiative is the Go Red for Women campaign, which specifically targets heart disease in women, a demographic that is often overlooked in cardiovascular health discussions. Go Red for Women is an effort for awareness, prevention, and change.
American Heart Month is an event that serves as a reminder to individuals to focus on their hearts and recognize cardiovascular disease. American Heart Month serves as a reminder of the profound impact cardiovascular diseases have on families, individuals, and communities. Despite advancements in medical science, heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S. The month of February encourages individuals to take steps to improve their heart health, such as engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, adopting a heart-healthy diet, and scheduling regular check-ups with health care providers.
The initiative brings attention to the social factors of health that contribute to cardiovascular disease, which include access to health care, economic stability, and education. By raising awareness of these factors, American Heart Month seeks to empower individuals and communities to take control of their heart health and advocate for systemic changes that can reduce the burden of heart disease across the nation.
Go Red for Women, launched by the American Heart Association in 2004, is an important part of American Heart Month. This campaign highlights the unique risks and symptoms of heart disease in women, which differ from those experienced by men. Cardiovascular disease was once considered a “man’s disease,” but Go Red for Women has changed that narrative by educating women about the importance of heart health and the symptoms they should be aware of, such as nausea, shortness of breath, and back or jaw pain.
The campaign encourages women to make lifestyle changes that can significantly decrease their risk of heart disease. These changes include eating a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables; quitting smoking; exercising regularly; and managing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. Additionally, Go Red for Women fosters a supportive community where women can seek advice, share their stories, and find motivation to lead healthier lives.
The following chart displays the leading causes of cardiovascular death in the U.S. for the year 2021. Coronary heart disease accounts for the highest while diseases of the arteries account for the lowest.
Leading causes of death attributed to cardiovascular disease in the U.S., 2021
Coronary heart disease | 40.3% |
|---|---|
Stroke | 17.5% |
Other cardiovascular disease | 17.1% |
High blood pressure | 13.4% |
Heart failure | 9.1% |
Diseases of the arteries | 2.6% |
American Heart Association. (2024). 2024 Heart and Stroke Statistics: At-a-Glance. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/-/media/PHD-Files-2/Science-News/2/2024-Heart-and-Stroke-Stat-Update/2024-Statistics-At-A-Glance-final_2024.pdf
Heart disease encompasses any problem that affects the heart, such as arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, and heart failure. Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the U.S., accounting for 1 in 4 deaths. Here is a comprehensive list of the different types of heart diseases and their symptoms.
Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Heart disease – Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20353118.
Heart disease can be caused by a variety of factors. Here is a detailed list:
Healthy diet: Incorporate fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your diet while reducing cholesterol, saturated fats, and sodium.
Regular exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: Stopping smoking and moderating alcohol consumption can improve heart health.
Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact heart health. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and physical activity can help manage stress.
Maintain a healthy weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can decrease risk factors for heart disease.
Regular check-ups: Monitor cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and glucose levels regularly.
Heart disease is a broad term that covers various diseases and conditions. By understanding and recognizing the different types, individuals can manage and decrease their risk. Staying informed about heart health is crucial to maintaining a healthy heart and preventing heart disease. Additionally, American Heart Month and Go Red for Women are more than just awareness campaigns; they are movements that have the power to change and save lives. By educating the public, addressing the unique challenges faced by women, and advocating for healthier lifestyles, these initiatives are driving a national conversation about heart health. The messages of American Heart Month should continue to resonate throughout the year, reminding us all of the importance of taking care of our hearts.
