Halpin Urges Residents to “Wear Red” for Women’s Heart Health Awareness

ROCK ISLAND, Ill. – Recognizing the American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” initiative, state Rep. Mike Halpin, D-Rock Island, is encouraging residents to get their heart health checked and take steps to decrease their risk factors for heart disease.

“Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in women in the U.S. each year,” Halpin said. “National Wear Red Day is a great opportunity to remind women that we can change these statistics and reduce the risk of heart disease through healthy lifestyle changes.”

“Go Red for Women” is the American Heart Association’s national program to combat heart disease and strokes in women, which account for one in three female fatalities each year. While heart health is the leading cause of death in women, the American Heart Association indicates that approximately 80 percent of cardiac arrests can be prevented with education and lifestyle changes.  For more information about heart health, and to learn about ways to reduce risk, residents can visit the American Heart Association’s website at www.goredforwomen.org.

“Too many families are affected by heart disease, and it is my hope that we can help curb statistics and prevent future tragedies,” Halpin said. “It’s important for everyone to encourage their loved ones and take steps themselves to monitor their heart health.”

For more information, please contact Halpin’s full-time constituent service office at 309-558-3612 or at rephalpin@gmail.com.