Go Red For Women is an annual event that inspires us to educate ourselves and the women in our lives to make lifestyle changes and reduce our cardiovascular risk. It also encourages us to get involved in our communities to share the good news and be a part of the change. Whether you volunteer, advocate or donate, together we can make a difference.

To start with, heart disease and stroke cause 1 in 3 deaths each year in women and 1 in 3 women have some form of cardiovascular disease. There is good news though, with education and action, as much as 80 percent of events can be prevented.

Knowledge is key when it comes to women and heart disease. The more a woman knows about the effects, the symptoms and signs, the risk factors and the ways to reduce her risk, the better her chances are of beating it. Here are some things women can do to reduce their risk of future cardiac events.

1. Don’t smoke - quit for good
2. Manage your blood sugar - less than 100 mg/dl
3. Get your blood pressure under control - less than 120/80 mm/Hg
4. Lower your cholesterol - know your numbers and talk to your doctor
5. Lower your Body Mass Index - strive for a BMI less than 25
6. Stay active - at least 150 minutes/wk
7. Eat healthy - plenty of vegetables, fruits, low fat-dairy, whole grains, fish, poultry and nuts. Limit red meats, sweets and sugary drinks

Let's all join in the fight to reduce the risk of future cardiovascular disease for our mothers and daughters and sisters and friends.

And if you do have a heart attack or cardiac event, ask your doctor about cardiac rehabilitation. It is an important part of your recovery and can help you build heart-healthy habits to live and thrive with cardiovascular disease. Don’t miss out on the many health benefits.