ATLANTA, Dec. 9, 2024 – Nearly half of women ages 20 and older are living with some form of cardiovascular disease (CVD), the No. 1 killer of women[1]. Because of her passion for improving women’s heart health in metro Atlanta, Julia Houston, chief strategy and marketing officer for Equifax will serve as the 2024-2025 volunteer chair of Go Red for Women. Launched more than two decades ago to increase women’s heart health awareness, Go Red for Women is the American Heart Association’s global movement to improve women’s heart health.

CVD is the leading cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined, and continues to be women’s greatest health threat[2]. According to the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, as women grow and change so does their risk for CVD. Unique life stages like pregnancy and menopause can affect that risk. The good news is, the majority of cardiovascular disease incidents can be prevented through lifestyle changes and education. Through Go Red for Women, the Association calls on all women to take charge of their health.

“I was inspired to chair Go Red for Women this year because heart health is deeply personal to me—it affects so many women in our community, including the ones we love," said Houston. "As women, we often put everyone else first, but it’s important to remember that our own health matters, too. Go Red for Women is about encouraging us to prioritize our heart health while supporting and empowering each other. Together, we can raise awareness, share knowledge, and take action to help women of all ages take control of their heart health. It’s a mission I’m proud to lead, and I look forward to making a difference in the lives of so many women.”

The 2024-25 Atlanta Go Red for Women campaign focuses on meeting the evolving needs of women now, and at every age, every stage, and every season of their lives as their trusted, relevant source for credible, equitable health solutions. Driven by the strength of community support, the Association has successfully expanded postpartum Medicaid benefits in Georgia, launched farm fresh markets to combat nutrition insecurity, and enacted smoke-free ordinances in Atlanta and across the state.. Additionally, initiatives like distributing health resources to new moms and inspiring high school girls to pursue STEM careers are driving equity and transforming women’s health across metro Atlanta.

“We are incredibly grateful for Julia and her unwavering passion and dedication to the Go Red for Women movement,” said Carla Smith, Metro Atlanta American Heart Association region senior vice president and executive director. “She leads by example through her commitment to raising awareness and advocating for women’s heart health, and because of this she has made a significant impact on our community.”

Go Red for Women is a global movement with impact across the United States and in more than 50 countries around the world. This year’s Go Red for Women movement and its local achievements will be celebrated on Thursday, May 22 during the Atlanta Go Red for Women luncheon at the JW Marriott in Buckhead.

Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health. The Atlanta Go Red for Women Luncheon is sponsored by Atlanta Braves, Cox Enterprises, Encompass, Northside Hospital, PwC, Wellstar Health System, Southern Company, Southwire and Unum. For more information, contact atlanta@heart.org or visit heart.org/atlgored.  

 

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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 a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

 

About Go Red for Women®  

The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While the majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For more than two decades, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedForWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).  

 

For Media Inquiries:

Erin Thomas; Erin.Thomas@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org