11 Iowa Women Launch Heart Disease Awareness Campaign

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Eleven Iowa women, including six from the Quad Cities region, have launched campaigns as part of the American Heart Association's national 'Woman of Impact' initiative. This effort, kicking off on National Wear Red Day, February 6th, aims to raise awareness and critical funds to combat cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death for women in the United States.

Why it matters

Nearly 45% of women over the age of 20 are living with some form of CVD. Despite this alarming statistic, over 80% of heart attacks and strokes are preventable. The 'Woman of Impact' program is a key component of the Go Red for Women movement, focused on improving women's heart health, addressing gaps in clinical care, and supporting vital research.

The details

Throughout the nine-week competition, nominees will host events and activities designed to promote heart-healthy lifestyles and increase awareness of cardiovascular risks. Participants compete both locally and nationally to raise funds for the American Heart Association. City-level winners will be announced on April 9th, with the top fundraiser nationwide earning the title of National Woman of Impact.

• The 'Woman of Impact' campaign kicks off on National Wear Red Day, February 6th.
• The nine-week competition concludes on April 9th, with city-level winners announced that day.
• The top fundraiser nationwide will earn the title of National Woman of Impact.

What’s next

City-level winners of the 'Woman of Impact' campaign will be announced on April 9th, with the top fundraiser nationwide earning the title of National Woman of Impact.