Staff at Tomah Health raised awareness of heart disease by wearing red Feb. 7.
February 7th is recognized as National Wear Red Day…an awareness event developed by the American Heart Association to support ongoing research and education about women and heart disease.
Tomah Health Cardiac Rehabilitation Director Shana Steele says spreading the message not only raises awareness but empowers women to fight the battle. “Wear Red Day raises awareness of the leading cause of death for women, which is heart disease,” said Steele.
She said it’s very important for women to be aware of the risk factors for heart disease and know the warning signs of a heart attack. “Although some women have no symptoms, it is important to be aware of signs of a heart attack. For example, chest pain or discomfort, pain in the upper back or neck indigestion, heartburn, nausea or vomiting, extreme fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath,” explained Steele.
Heart disease claims the lives of more than 422,000 American women each year, causing one in three deaths each year.
Steele said it is important to make positive lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, eating healthy, consistent exercise and managing stress which can reduce the risk of heart disease. “It’s important for everyone to be aware of heart disease and the signs and symptoms of a heart attack so we can help to reduce the risk of heart disease in the future.”
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