Overview
- The AHA introduced its 2026 Go Red for Women national Class of Survivors and launched regional Woman and Teen of Impact campaigns that begin Feb. 6, run nine weeks, conclude April 9, and culminate with a national celebration on April 15.
- Communities are preparing for National Wear Red Day on Friday, Feb. 6, with Pittsburgh planning to light landmarks red and the public urged to wear red to spotlight women’s cardiovascular health.
- Personal stories underscore sudden, varied events, including a catastrophic postpartum stroke described by Erin Adelekun and a “widowmaker” heart attack detailed by Priti Langer, alongside survivor accounts from Oregon and southwest Washington.
- Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death for women, nearly 45% of women over 20 live with some form of CVD, only 38% of cardiovascular trial participants were women in 2020, and women are less likely to receive bystander CPR.
- New this week, Austin’s Feb. 12 Go Red for Women Luncheon will feature heart attack survivor and stress researcher Eliz Greene, with organizers emphasizing the role of stress and persistent underdiagnosis in women’s heart health.