American Heart Month

Written by: Jane Cozby 

February is American Heart Month.  What better time to refresh our knowledge of the warning signs and risk factors of cardiovascular disease.  

This increased awareness can help prevent a heart attack or stroke from occurring.  Sadly, my father didn’t know that he was at risk.  In 1980, he died suddenly of a heart attack.  He was only in his 50s.  Our family was devastated by his unexpected death. 

He was a vibrant, strong and fit man.  He ate well, exercised and was rarely sick.  There were no warning signs to identify that he may be unhealthy. No obvious need to see a doctor.   It wasn’t until after he died, that we came to learn of a strong family history of heart disease. With this knowledge, we can now take a pro-active approach to our health and try to stop this disease from becoming part of our future.

It’s important to remember that heart disease does not discriminate.  It affects women as well as men.  In fact, it is estimated that 43 million women in the U.S. are affected by heart disease. About ten years ago, the American Heart Association created National Wear Red Day® and the Go Red for Women  challenge to increase awareness of this issue and dismiss the falsehood that cardiovascular disease only happens to men.  

The first Friday in February marks a day where millions of people come together to wear red in commitment to fighting this serious disease.  Since the inception of this program, great progress has been made in the fight against heart disease.  The latest statistics reflect that 21% fewer women are dying from heart disease and 23% more women are aware that it is their number 1 health threat.

In recognition of American Heart Month, visit the American Heart Association website and utilize the risk assessment tool, take the America Goes Red Challenge, or simply share this important information with your friends and family.  Go Red and take charge of your health.