American Heart Association announces 2024-25 Go Red for Women Chair in the Triad metropolitan region of North Carolina
GREENSBORO, NC, June 28, 2024 — The American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, is proud to announce Sowmya Lakshminarayanan, M.D., a triple board-certified neurologist with Novant Health, as the chair of the 2025 Go Red for Women Movement in the Triad.
“I am committed to sharing vital information about how women can maintain and improve their health, with the main focus on proactive prevention as a care continuum throughout instead of a reflexive point of care approach when sick,” shared Dr. Lakshminarayanan. “My goal is to inspire and encourage family, friends and the greater community to actively support the women in their lives. By uplifting one woman, we create a ripple effect that benefits her circle of influence, her family and ultimately her community and beyond.”
Go Red for Women is a global initiative of the American Heart Association to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women locally, nationally and globally. Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer for women in the United States, claiming more lives than all forms of cancer combined. Nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of cardiovascular disease. Stroke is the No. 3 cause of death in women. According to the American Heart Association, less than half of women are aware that cardiovascular disease is their greatest health threat.
“Both personally and professionally, this is very important to me. I chose to chair Go Red for Women in the Triad because of its profound ability to impact a broad group of women. I also look forward to emphasizing the overall health of women, including physical, psychological, emotional and social well-being,” said Dr. Lakshminarayanan.
With over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Lakshminarayanan holds multiple executive roles including Market Clinical Physician Executive for the Novant Health Neurosciences Institute in the greater Winston Salem Region, and System Telemedicine Program Medical Director for the Neurosciences Institute. She earned a master’s certification in Healthcare Leadership from Cornell University and an AI in Healthcare Certification from MIT Sloan School of Management. She focuses on promoting prompt stroke care for many local communities and beyond by keeping health equity and patient experience as the core.
Go Red for Women and its local community impact will be celebrated at the Triad Go Red for Women Experience on February 7, 2025. This event includes a featured speaker and local heart disease survivor sharing her story, heart health information expo, Purse-onalities Auction, Go Red survivor fashion show and a heart-healthy dinner. Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health. The Triad Go Red for Women Experience is sponsored by Live Fierce. Life is Why Sponsor Novant Health. Funds raised through the Triad Go Red for Women Experience benefit heart disease and stroke research and community impact programs focused on awareness and prevention
For more information about Go Red for Women visit www.heart.org/triadgored.
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About Go Red for Women®
The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While the majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For 20 years, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Sarah Fedele; sarah.fedele@heart.org
