Heart Health: A Call to Action for Women
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death for women in Oregon, Washington, and across the United States. To combat this alarming fact, the American Heart Association (AHA) is urging women to make their heart health a priority. Brooke Baldwin, a nursing executive at OHSU, is leading the local campaign as the 2026 chair for the Go Red for Women initiative. This movement aims to empower women to take control of their heart health and bridges important gaps in knowledge and care.
Dr. Baldwin emphasizes the urgency of this issue: “Women’s health needs our attention now. Heart disease can change lives unexpectedly.” Her dedication to this cause stems from personal experience, revealing how crucial it is for women to understand their risks.
Surprisingly, less than half of women recognize their risk of heart disease. The Go Red for Women initiative is actively working to educate women and support their health needs. By providing critical resources and connecting women with essential nutritional and hypertension resources, the AHA aims to improve access to better care.
Historically, heart disease was often viewed as a man’s disease, leading to a lack of research and awareness for women. Recent studies show that women experience different symptoms than men, making education even more vital. The AHA’s push for research focused on women’s heart health is changing the narrative.
The momentum will build until a Go Red for Women celebration in September 2026, sponsored locally by Cambia Health Foundation and OHSU Health. Social media trends show a growing movement among women to share their heart health stories, fostering a supportive community.
Dr. Baldwin’s commitment is creating a wave of change. “Women can count on each other for support,” says Meredith Collett from the AHA. Together, they are working not just to spread awareness but to inspire action and change lives.
For more information, visit the American Heart Association’s site on Oregon’s health initiatives.
Source link
Brooke Baldwin, OHSU, Go Red for Women Chair
