What: When diseases that impact women come to mind, breast cancer or cervical cancer often top the list. But heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women. Increased awareness of the disease can save lives and cause women to look at their daily habits to prevent the illness. On Feb. 7, Wear Red for women.
Background: Sponsored by the American Heart Association, National Wear Red Day helps to make people aware of heart disease, often referred to as the Silent Killer. It has no real outward symptoms, and it can be more deadly than cancer. The impact of heart disease on women is more widely recognized today, but for a long time it was considered a disease of elderly men. This year’s celebration marks the event’s 11th anniversary.
Story Pitch: A number of organizations and retailers can pitch around National Wear Red Day. Clothing retailers geared towards women can promote the day by gearing their promotions towards red. They will want to note the need for red clothing, announcing its connection to women’s heart disease, and to promote awareness by offering information on the disease and how it affects women. In addition, cardiologists and family doctors alike may focus on their female patients, alerting them to the high rates of heart disease in women. Women are often unaware of how heart disease can affect them, and this is a perfect opportunity for doctors to step in and fill in the gap. Health food stores and suppliers may also want to focus on the day, noting the importance of a balanced diet and a healthy cholesterol level. They may consider offering cooking demonstrations or classes on how to round out diets and keep them within healthy limits.
Story Hook: Because of the increased awareness, 34 percent fewer women die of heart disease today than in 2003 when the first National Wear Red Day started. Each day, more women are decreasing their risks by losing weight, exercising and focusing on cholesterol and diet. Consider the following when you make your pitch:
- What are some ways women can avoid heart disease?
- At what age should heart disease be a concern? Does it affect only older women or are young women also susceptible?
- What kind of questions should women be asking their doctors concerning heart disease?
- What are the biggest causes and risks associated with developing heart disease?
Tips: A cardiologist who specializes in women’s heart disease can give insight into the disease and how it specifically affects women. In addition, a woman who has overcome heart disease can provide details on prevention and awareness.
Resources:
American Heart Association
(800) 242-8721
www.heart.org
Go Red for Women
(800) 242-8721
www.goredforwomen.org
WomenHeart
(202) 728-7199
mail(at)womenheart.org
www.womenheart.org
Women’s Heart Foundation
(609) 771-9600
www.womensheart.org
World Heart Federation
info(at)worldheart.org
www.world-heart-federation.org
Event Dates from CHASE’S Calendar of Events