Get Your Red On

Did you know that every minute a woman dies of heart disease? According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death for women in the U.S. Although most of us are aware of heart disease, we don't think it will happen to us. I never understood the urgency of it. And then I was diagnosed with high blood pressure and high cholesterol several years ago. It was like a smack in the face. I had 2 of the 7 risk factors for heart disease, and I was scared. I am proof that women in their 30's as well as in their 50's, 60's, and 70's can have risk factors for heart disease.

Diet and exercise combined with prescription medications brought my blood pressure and cholesterol readings within normal ranges. But some women aren't so lucky.

On Friday, February 4th, the American Heart Association is hosting a nationwide event, "Wear Red Day" which encourages everyone to dress in red to raise awareness for heart disease. "Wear Red Day" is part of the "Go Red For Women" campaign, which provides education about heart disease risk factors for women, hosts community events, provides CPR kits, and raises money for heart disease research.

Looking for a red dress? Available now through March 20, women can purchase Macy's "Go Red" dress by INC ($99). Macy's will donate 5 percent of each sale to the American Heart Association.

Heart disease - which includes heart attacks, congestive heart failure, coronary heart disease and genetic defects - is no longer "your grandparent's disease". Don't let it become your disease. Lead a healthy lifestyle and know your numbers. If you haven't had your blood pressure or cholesterol checked recently, make an appointment today.

And don't forget to wear your red on Friday!