BENTON, Ark., May 9, 2023 — More than 300 people decked out from head to toe in red are expected to gather at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 10 for the Central Arkansas’ 2023 Go Red for Women Luncheon to raise awareness and help fund the fight against heart disease and stroke. The event at the Benton Event Center starts with a health expo at 10 a.m.  The luncheon will follow with a program at noon.

The Go Red for Women Luncheon is one of the nation’s premier events for the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, and the signature fundraising event for its Go Red for Women movement, which harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to improve their health, and in turn, support their families and communities.

“We’ve made tremendous progress over the years, but cardiovascular disease is still the No. 1 killer of women, claiming more women’s lives of one in three women each year – more than all forms of cancer combined,” said Central Arkansas Executive Director Nikki Smith.

All women, especially Black and Hispanic women are disproportionally impacted by heart disease and stroke and research shows heart attacks are on the rise in younger women.[1] Yet, younger generations of women, Gen Z and Millennials, are less likely to be aware of their greatest health threat, including knowing the warning signs of heart attacks and strokes.[2] That’s why it’s important for all women to take charge of their heart health and encourage others to do the same.

Guests will rally at the heart-healthy event around a goal to raise $175,000, which will help advance women's health through research, education, awareness and advocacy initiatives.

Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and the Central Arkansas Go Red for Women Luncheon is presented locally by Saline Health System. Other local sponsors include match sponsor First Horizon Foundation; silver sponsors Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arkansas, Legacy Termite & Pest Control and QualChoice Health Insurance; and media sponsors About You magazine/Arkansas Money & Politics, B98 and Power 92 Jams.

“Cardiovascular disease kills one in three women in America every year, and sadly, many of those deaths could have been prevented with lifestyle changes,” said Michael Stewart, CEO at Saline Health System and a Central Arkansas board member. “At Saline Health System, we are dedicated to supporting the American Heart Association in its efforts to raise awareness around the severity of this trend and to help empower women to live longer, healthier lives.”

For more information, visit the event website, CentralARGoRed.heart.org

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook or Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

For Media Inquiries

Cyd King: M 479.263.8473; cyd.king@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org