Go Red for Women Information

A red dress is the national symbol for women's heart health awareness.

Go Red for Women is an initiative of the American Heart Association (AHA) designed to raise awareness of heart disease in women.

History of Go Red for Women

Go Red for Women began in 2004. According to the AHA, heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women, as more than 500,000 women die from heart disease every year. However, only 55 percent of women are aware of their risk for heart disease, and most women assume that heart disease only affects older men. The AHA designed the campaign to help women learn about and reduce their risk for heart disease.

Goals of the Campaign

The AHA set a goal in 2010 to reduce death and disability from heart disease and strokes by 20 percent and improve the cardiovascular health of all Americans by 20 percent by the year 2020.

Go Red for Women Activities

The red dress is the recognized symbol of Go Red for Women, and millions of red dress pins have been given out to raise awareness of the campaign. Go Red for Women raises funds for research, education, and awareness programs to help women improve their heart health. As of 2010, more than 200,000 health care providers have received Go Red for Women information to share with patients.

References

• Go Red for Women: About the Movement

Resources

• Go Red for Women
• American Heart Association