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(NAPSI)-While more women today are aware that
they are at risk for heart disease, a very large number still do not realize
that it is their number one killer.
That's why the American Heart Association's
new Go Red For Women campaign uses the color red to draw attention to heart
disease and urges women to take control of their health and learn more about
cardiovascular disease.
Ninety percent of women feel they have
power over their health -but only 27 percent say their health is a top
priority, according to a recent American Heart Association survey. This lack
of urgency about such a serious health threat contributes to the deaths of
nearly 500,000 American women every year.
"Our focus is to empower women to reduce
their risk of heart disease," said Nieca Goldberg, M.D., assistant professor
of medicine at New York University. "The Go Red For Women campaign outlines
a plan to help women take action against heart disease."
To Go Red For Women, eat healthfully,
exercise, don't smoke, maintain a healthy weight, blood pressure, and blood
cholesterol level, and control diabetes, if you have it. Learn your family's
medical history and visit your doctor to find out if you are at risk for
heart disease or stroke. If a healthy diet and exercise doesn't work, then
talk to your doctor about medication and take it as prescribed. Even if you
need medicine, a healthy diet and exercise are still important.
The campaign is sponsored by Pfizer, which
will conduct educational campaigns throughout the country, and Macy's, which
will develop a marketing effort including special merchandise to benefit the
American Heart Association. It is funded with a grant from PacifiCare.
People can support heart disease and stroke
research and education by purchasing designated products and gift items from
companies such as Swarovski Crystal, Pantene, OPI Products, Le Mystere,
Walgreens, St. John, Ross Dress for Less and Angel Wreaths. A portion of
proceeds from the sale of these products will benefit the American Heart
Association.
Call 1-888-MY-HEART or visit
www.americanheart.org
for heart health tips and information on Simple Solutions and Choose to
Move, the American Heart Association's free lifestyle programs that will
help your heart, your health and your life.
Red is the color that symbolizes heart
disease in women and empowers them to take charge of their health. |
