American Heart Association
Why is heart health an issue for the women of Middle Tennessee?
Heart disease is the number one health threat to women. One in three women will die of heart disease or stroke—more than all cancers combined. Women are more impacted by heart disease and less likely to know they are at increased risk. Why is this? Because women tend to focus their energy on caring for others before caring for themselves. We are helping our spouses and our parents and our children and other loved ones live longer, healthier lives, but not always taking the time to take care of ourselves.
How has COVID impacted our heart health?
Since the onset of COVID-19 we have seen a significant increase in deaths from heart disease and stroke, and if we think about it, it makes sense. We are under more stress, exercising less, eating more unhealthy foods, drinking more, seeing the doctor less... all the unhealthy behaviors that are hardest on our hearts.
Are there really disparities in heart health?
Absolutely. Most research on heart health is conducted on men, so the results may be skewed. Most women don’t know that they are at increased risk of heart disease and stroke, especially young women. About half the African American population is affected by heart disease and Black women especially are facing an overwhelming health crisis.
What can women in our community do to take action?
Start taking care of yourse lf today—get a little more active, eat a little better, t ake a little more time for your mental health. Also, if you haven’t been to the doctor in a while, make that appointment to make sure your blood pressure and other health indicators are on track.
Who is leading the call to engage women in the Go Red for Women movement in our community?
We are so proud of the nine women of Middle Tennessee who have stepped forward in February as our very first class of Women of Impact. Women of Impact are leaders in the community who are leading the charge to tell their story, engage and empower women to take action for their heart health, and raise money for research that focuses on women’s health. We’re also honored to have the leadership of Melinda Walega, who is currently chairing the Go Red for Women movement in Nashville.
Tip: Join us on April 20 for our annual Go Red for Women Luncheon!
1818 Patterson St., Nashville, 615-340-4100; MiddleTNGoRed.Heart.org