SACRAMENTO, Feb. 3, 2026— Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death for women in the United States.[1] On Friday, February 6, National Wear Red Day®, people and landmarks across the nation will “go red” to raise awareness of women’s No. 1 killer.

The American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, is working to raise awareness that heart disease and stroke can happen at any age and nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of CVD.[2] On National Wear Red Day, the Heart Association urges everyone to join the Go Red for Women® movement in championing better health and well-being for all women by wearing red and spreading awareness. You can join the conversation online by sharing on social media using #WearRedDay, #WearRedAndGive and #GoRedforWomen.

The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement, nationally sponsored by CVS Health, and locally sponsored by Sutter Health, is asking women to make bold moves today for a healthier tomorrow:

  • Know your numbers: Maintaining good blood pressure, blood glucose, total cholesterol and body mass index can lower your risk for heart disease and stroke.
  • Join Research Goes Red to help ensure more women are represented and counted when it comes to scientific discovery: Women continue to be underrepresented in cardiovascular research.
  • Learn Hands-Only CPR and be equipped with the knowledge to save a life: Women are less likely to receive bystander CPR.

“National Wear Red Day is deeply personal for me. As a nurse, a health care leader, and a woman committed to improving community health, I’ve seen firsthand how heart disease can impact women, families and entire communities,” said Katrina (Kat) Ascencio-Holmes, Go Red for Women Chair, 2025 National Women of Impact Award Recipient and Chief Nurse Officer at Sutter Health. “Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women, but it doesn’t have to be. When we come together to wear red, learn the signs, and take action for our heart health, we empower women across the Greater Valley— and future generations— to live longer, healthier lives.”

In Sacramento and the Greater Valley, landmarks such as Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento, Sutter Memorial Medical Center in Modesto and Sutter Medical Foundation, as well as Collins Electrical Company Inc. in Stockton, Encompass Health, and Dignity Health Mercy Medical Center Redding, will light up red in support. The California State Legislature will hold its annual “Capitol Goes Red” event, all aiming to shine a spotlight on women’s heart health.

Find resources to support women’s heart health at every age and stage of life at GoRedforWomen.org and learn more about National Wear Red Day at WearRedDay.org.

Additional Resources:

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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, Instagram, 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: 

Vibhuti Gupta: Vibhuti.Gupta@Heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org