HARTFORD, Conn., September 21, 2026 — According to recent American Heart Association projections, by 2050, almost 60% of women could have high blood pressure. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the No. 1 killer of women, but it doesn’t have to be.[1] The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, is encouraging women to prioritize their heart health.

Leading that effort locally is Jennifer Berry, managing director, Identity & Access Management (IAM) GRC Operations at The Cigna Group, who has been named chair of the American Heart Association’s 2027 Greater Hartford Go Red for Women® movement. This campaign empowers women to take charge of their heart health by educating them on their risk factors in every stage of life while addressing critical gaps in research and health care. Go Red for Women® is dedicated to helping every woman, in every stage of life, improve their heart and brain health.

Berry brings a strong track record of community leadership and advocacy to her role. Earlier this year, she was named the 2026 Go Red for Women Connecticut Woman of Impact winner. Through fundraising and awareness-building efforts, she surpassed the initiative’s 100,000-point milestone, joining an elite group of just 11 national nominees, known as the Centennial Club.

“Women’s health is not a hot topic or buzzword. It deserves attention, funding and research to save the lives of mothers, sisters and friends,” Berry said. “Go Red for Women is a call to action, for our hearts, our futures and every woman who matters to us.”

Despite the threat of CVD an American Heart Association survey found less than half of women are aware of their unique risk. Go Red for Women is committed to closing gaps in access to care and championing a community of support.

"Jennifer is a passionate advocate for women's heart health and a driving force for positive change in Greater Hartford," said Haley Sofiane, volunteer board chair of the American Heart Association - Connecticut and president of CareCentrix. "Through Go Red for Women, we are building a community that encourages women at every stage of life to prioritize their heart and brain health and supports them in living longer, healthier lives."

Women often put the needs of their families, careers and communities ahead of their own well-being, but when it comes to heart health, delaying care can have serious consequences. Through the Go Red for Women Luncheon, Berry is helping raise awareness about the importance of women prioritizing their health, recognizing the warning signs of heart disease, and seeking prompt medical attention when something doesn’t feel right. Early action can save lives and empowering women to put their health first is a critical step in improving heart health outcomes.

The Greater Hartford Go Red for Women Luncheon will take place in the spring at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, featuring an inspiring program with survivor stories and lunch, and an interactive Festival of Red where guests can connect, take real action for their heart health and experience what makes this event unforgettable. This year marks the event’s 22nd anniversary.

For more information how to support women’s heart health through the Go Red for Women movement of the Greater Hartford Go Red for Women Luncheon, contact Bethany Pelletier at bethany.pelletier@heart.org or visit www.heart.org/goredhartford.

 

 

###

 

 

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. 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. For more information, please visit GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).

 

For Media Inquiries:

Mary Ann Burns – mary.ann.burns@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org