CALIFORNIA, USA — February 2 is National Wear Red Day. It's a day when the American Heart Association asks people to don their favorite reds to raise awareness for heart disease. It's the leading cause of death for women.
Sutter Medical Center Cardiologist and American Heart Association Volunteer Dr. Neelima Vallurupalli said heart attacks and strokes are 80% to 90% preventable. It takes some self-awareness, but doctors can keep a closer eye as well.
"We want to educate caregivers not to dismiss the symptoms that may not sound or appear like cardiac symptoms in women. We should have that heightened alert when women present to the ER or call 911 and they say they have a soreness in the chest. It may still be a heart issue," Vallurupalli said.
Atypical symptoms of a heart attack in women can be back or jaw pain, shortness of breath, or nausea.
Besides wearing red, the association says you can learn hands-only CPR. Women are often not given CPR because bystanders are afraid to touch or hurt them. You can also monitor your own health by checking your blood pressure and taking moments to practice some self-care and de-stress.
Women can participate in research and help more women see representation in new findings. Lastly, you can donate through one of the American Heart Association's campaigns. If you donate on National Wear Red Day your gift will be triple matched.
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