New Haven, CT, May 14, 2025 – The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization devoted to world of healthier lives for all, is pleased to announce the co-chairs of the 2026 Greater New Haven Go Red for Women Reception. Dr. Meghana Rao Brito, Assistant Professor of Medicine (Cardiovascular), Yale School of Medicine; Medical Director, Echocardiography Laboratory, Lawrence + Memorial Hospital; Director, Women's Heart and Vascular Center, Lawrence + Memorial Hospital and Nicole DeMaio, Vice President of Business Development, Downes Construction, will co-chair and lead the women-focused signature event.
Go Red for Women is a worldwide initiative of the American Heart Association designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women locally, nationally and globally.
“As a cardiologist, I see the impact that cardiovascular disease has on women’s heart health and the need to learn more about risk factors and prevention,” said Dr. Rao Brito. “This event provides an opportunity for women to connect with innovators in the field for information, motivation and inspiration. Together we are funding research to advance solutions specific to women’s unique health experiences and working to ensure that every woman, everywhere receives the care and support she needs.”
Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the United States, claiming more lives each year than all forms of cancer combined. Cardiovascular disease continues to be a woman’s greatest health threat, taking the life of one in every three women.
“I look forward to working with Dr. Rao Brito and the Executive Leadership Team to help bring awareness to this critical issue,” said DeMaio. “Cardiovascular disease is personal and complex. Women have been under-represented and under-supported for too long. With inequities in research, treatment and funding, we need to work together to support each other and this cause. This event can do just that by providing tools and resources needed for women to lead heart-healthy lives and raise critical funds.”
Since 2004, Go Red for Women has had a profound impact on women’s health. As the trusted and relevant force to eradicate heart disease and stroke through the Go Red for Women movement, the American Heart Association remains steadfast and committed to meeting the comprehensive health needs of women — at every life stage.
“The 2026 Go Red for Women reception marks our 10th anniversary in Greater New Haven. We are thrilled to have Nicole DeMaio and Dr. Meghana Rao Brito leading the Go Red for Women movement in Greater New Haven,” said American Heart Association Connecticut Executive Director, Adria Giordano. “Together, we know that we will have a positive impact on the lives of women in our community and the families that depend on them.”
For more information about the New Haven Go Red for Women, contact Development Director Chelsea DeGroat, Chelsea.DeGroat@heart.org
For information on women’s heart health visit www.goredforwomen.org.
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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 21 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 devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke – the two leading causes of death in the world. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHA-USA1, visit heart.org or call any of our offices around the country. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
Media:
Mary Ann Burns – mary.ann.burns@heart.org
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For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) heart.org
