Redefining Women’s Cardiovascular Health
A new multi-society framework based on female biology can help women and their care teams identify risks across life stages and take action early.
Your cardiovascular health is shaped throughout your life. From biological changes to everyday choices, many parts of your health and life can affect your heart and brain. But at every age and every stage, there are steps you can take to strengthen and protect your heart.
Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women
Since 2004, the American Heart Association’s signature women's initiative, Go Red for Women, has addressed the awareness and clinical care gaps of women’s greatest health threat, cardiovascular disease. We have the tools and resources you need to put your health and well-being first.
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Over 44% of women ages 20+ are living with some form of cardiovascular disease.
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Women’s cardiovascular health can be affected by risk factors and conditions in different life stages: adolescence, midlife, pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause and menopause.
10-20% of pregnancies have adverse pregnancy outcomes, which can contribute to lifetime risk of cardiovascular disease.
What’s Happening Now
Knowing Her Family History Saved Her Life
Beth Opel started having a heart attack on a road trip with her sister. Because heart disease runs in her family, Beth immediately recognized what was happening and sought care. Her message to other women? Look into your family history and always take your symptoms seriously.
Find Support, Find Community, Find Strength
The American Heart Association's Support Network connects patients and caregivers living with heart disease and stroke — because shared experience is one of the most powerful forms of care.
Menopause, Mental Well-being and Your Heart
Depression and anxiety remain common after menopause, although the reasons may be different than they were earlier in life. Paying attention to your mental well-being and maintaining healthy daily habits can help support your overall health.
Your Cardiovascular Health at Every Stage of Life
Your heart health is shaped across decades. Symptoms, risk factors and health needs change across life stages. Take charge of your health by knowing what to watch for at each stage – and how it can affect your heart.
Go Red Together
Find ways to get connected to and support other women.
Connect to a Healthier You
Learn more about risks, prevention, healthy lifestyle, risk reduction and more.
Connect with Your Community
Volunteer, attend an event, join a philanthropic group, or connect on social media.
Connect to Support
Living with cardiovascular disease or caring for someone who does? Find support.
Connect with Research
Participate in research and inspire the next generation of women leaders in STEM careers.
Connect to Make an Impact
Help advance our mission and advocate for policies that support all women’s health and well-being.
Go Red Gear
Pins, pamphlets, shirts and more! We have everything you need to Go Red to
raise awareness, show your support and help fund our mission with every purchase.
Shop & Go Red! raise awareness, show your support and help fund our mission with every purchase.