American Heart Month: Caring for Your Heart at Every Age

February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of death in the U.S. Heart health is especially important for women. Cardiovascular disease is the #1 killer of women, and Black women face even greater risks.

As we age, conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol become more common—but many heart problems can be prevented or managed with education, self-care, and healthy habits. Prevention and survivorship are our focus.

You can do a lot to protect your heart and stay healthy. Heart-healthy living involves understanding your risk, making healthy choices, and taking steps to reduce your chances of getting heart disease. By taking preventive measures, you can lower your risk of developing heart disease that could lead to a heart attack. You can also improve your overall health and well-being. 

Take care of your heart and help build healthier lives for generations to come. Here is a list from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute of 10 ways you can support your heart health:

1. Get Enough Quality Sleep.
2. Eat Better.
3. Stop Smoking.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight.
5. Be More Active.
6. Control Cholesterol.
7. Manage Stress.
8. Manage Blood Sugar.
9. Control Blood Pressure.
10. Practice Self-Care & Find Social Support.

Help raise awareness about American Heart Month by participating in National Wear Red Day® on Friday, February 6, 2026. GO RED in support of women’s cardiovascular health by wearing red, sharing information and resources, and donating to support research and education. Together, we are stronger than heart disease and stroke.

Foundation For Black Women Wellness Call for Action:

The Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness will host its 15th Annual Wear Red Day on Saturday, February 21, 2026, 11:00 AM–1:30 PM at the Goodman Community Center. This empowering event will help women get informed, inspired, and   motivated to protect their hearts through fitness, education, and shared stories. Learn more and register at www.ffbww.org/wearredday.