HOUSTON, November 18, 2025 — Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among women in Houston and across the United States. To change that, the American Heart Association — a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere— is urging women to make their heart health a priority. Leading that charge locally is Jeanna Bamburg, chief executive officer of The Woman’s Hospital of Texas, an affiliate of HCA Houston Healthcare, who will serve as chairperson for Houston’s 2025–26 Go Red for Women® movement. In this role, Bamburg will champion efforts to empower women to take control of their heart health and address disparities in research, education, and access to care. Go Red for Women is dedicated to helping women lead healthier lives.

“As women, our days are full and life rarely slows down – but our health cannot wait,” said Bamburg. “Go Red for Women is more than campaign; it’s a movement that reminds us that Red Means Go – go prioritize your heart, go advocate for yourself, and go support the women you love. Heart Disease has deeply impacted my life. It’s the reason I became a young widow, the reason my children lost their father far too soon, and the reason my beloved grandmother passed away in her 50s. Two extraordinary lives, gone too early. I’m heading Go Red for Women to honor their memories, to raise awareness, and to help ensure more women recognize the signs, seek care early, and have the opportunity to live longer, healthier lives.”

Despite the ongoing threat of CVD, fewer than half of women are aware of their risk. Women also remain more likely to be underdiagnosed and undertreated. From lower rates of bystander CPR to significant gaps in care, women deserve better. Go Red for Women is dedicated to closing these gaps, creating equitable access to lifesaving resources, and building a community of support. Through education and awareness, the movement equips women with the tools to understand and reduce their risk for heart disease and stroke.

“One thing women can always count on is each other,” said Kellie Armstrong, executive director, American Heart Association, Houston – Gulf Coast. “Jeanna’s leadership and passion are inspiring a powerful ripple effect across Houston — empowering more women to protect their heart health and support one another in the process.”

Celebrate Go Red for Women’s local achievements on May 1, 2026, at the Houston Go Red for Women Luncheon at The Post Oak Hotel.

Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, and the Houston Go Red for Women Luncheon is locally sponsored by The Woman’s Hospital of Texas, an affiliate of HCA Houston Healthcare, St. Luke’s Health and Encompass Health. For more information, contact Sara Ritenour at Sara.Ritenour@heart.org or visit the 2026 Houston Go Red for Women Luncheon site.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

 

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 more than two decades, 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).

 

For Media Inquiries:

Dion Bart; Dion.bart@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org