Each February, VA partners with the American Heart Association to raise awareness of the risks and prevention of heart disease for women across VA.
“Nearly 1- in-3 women are impacted by heart disease or stroke. In fact, more women die from heart disease and stroke than cancer,” says Dr. LaToya J.M. Harris, program analyst, for VA’s Women’s Health Services. “Go Red for Women encourages us to discuss the issue of women and heart disease, and also to take action to save more lives.”
In early February, we at VA Central Office celebrated in a big way – complete with activities facilitated by VA’s Veterans Canteen Service and federal occupational health organizations with important lessons on wellness.
Gail Harris-Berry, a survivor who experienced her first heart incident when she was just 46, gave us a sobering first-hand account of how symptoms may present differently in women than in men: women are more likely to experience an uncomfortable pressure in their chest, shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain, to name a few symptoms.
All were impressed to learn about the practical ways in which we can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by choosing healthier foods and cooking methods; working out for just minutes daily; and knowing the impact of our behavior on the status of our health.
Let’s empower each other to Go Red for Women – and make sure you share what you learn, too! For more information, check out this site or cardiologist Dr. Shyla T. High (Valentine)’s, book, “Why Most Women Die – How Women Can Fight Their #1 Killer: Heart Disease.”
Go Red for Women SAVES LIVES!
Topics in this story
More Stories
Having a maternity care coordinator at your side means you’ve got an advocate to ensure you and your baby receive the best care.
Have you recently transitioned from military service, or are you looking to better understand the benefits and services available to you or a Veteran in your life? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can apply for your earned benefits and services.
On National Vietnam War Veterans Day, we recognize and honor the Americans who served during the Vietnam War. But there is a group of Veterans whose contributions have too often gone unrecognized—the women who also served in Vietnam. Your service, sacrifice, and resilience laid the foundation for future generations and shaped history.
I hope we don’t forget our Vets in Hawaii and Alaska when we ‘open’ art exhibits at VA facilities. I, for one, want them to know they are/have been appreciated for their service to our Nation.