ASHWAUBENON, Wis. — The month of February is American Heart Month and to kick off the month, February 1st is "National Wear Red Day"!
According to the American Heart Association, every 38 seconds, someone dies from cardiovascular disease.
Kelli VanderWielen Corporate Events Director with the American Heart Association sat down with NBC26's Emily Beier to discuss ways to improve heart health.
The American Heart Association and ThedaCare have come together to create the first Life is Why partnership in Wisconsin.
It's also important for women especially to be aware of the signs of a heart attack. They are not always the classic signs such as intense chest pain, but may start out slowly with just mild pain.
The Go Red for Women is a movement to raise awareness of cardiovascular diseases in women. Heart disease is the #1 killer of women, but fewer than 20% of women consider heart disease or stroke to be their biggest health threat.
Some symptoms to watch for in women:
- A fullness or uncomfortable pressure in your chest that goes away and comes back
- Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweat, nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness
- If you have any of these signs, do not wait. Call 9-1-1!
This month is the perfect time to focus on your and your family's health.
It's easy to get involved in the movement! Simply wear red on Friday and post a photo of your family, friends and colleagues in red and use #FCGoesRed.
