Nearly half of women in the United States have some form of cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke, a figure expected to grow. To combat this leading cause of death, the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women movement, nationally sponsored by CVS Health, urges action during American Heart Month. The initiative centers on National Wear Red Day on February 6, 2026, when people nationwide wear red and landmarks illuminate in support.
The association outlines four specific ways individuals can contribute to women's heart health. First, wearing red on National Wear Red Day and spreading awareness on social media using hashtags like #WearRedDay and #GoRedforWomen. Resources and tools are available at WearRedDay.org, and apparel including the iconic Red Dress pin can be found at ShopHeart.org.
Second, knowing key health numbers—total cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, and body mass index—is critical. Managing these metrics at healthy levels can reduce heart disease and stroke risk, and individuals are encouraged to discuss them with healthcare providers.
Third, joining the Research Goes Red initiative addresses a significant gap in cardiovascular research. Most clinical studies have not included women or analyzed women-specific data, despite cardiovascular disease claiming more women's lives annually than all cancers combined. By participating, women can contribute to surveys and studies, connect to research opportunities, and test new technologies to improve disease management. More information is available at GoRedforWomen.org.
Fourth, celebrating survivors and communities championing women's health amplifies impact. Twelve women from across the country will represent the Go Red for Women movement in 2026, sharing personal stories of heart disease and stroke to raise awareness about risks and resources. Their stories can be found at goredforwomen.org/survivors, helping women understand cardiovascular health at every life stage.
Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association, emphasized the collective power of these actions, stating that National Wear Red Day honors millions of women impacted by cardiovascular disease and reaffirms commitment to providing knowledge and resources for healthier lives. The movement's broader implications include shifting public health focus toward preventive care and equitable research, potentially reducing healthcare burdens and saving lives globally. By integrating awareness, personal health management, scientific contribution, and survivor advocacy, these steps offer a multifaceted approach to tackling a pervasive health threat.
