MedStar Franklin Square’s VP of Medical Affairs leads local movement to improve women’s heart health

BALTIMORE, Nov. 1, 2024 – Dr. Stephanie A. Detterline, the Vice President of Medical Affairs at Medstar Franklin Square Medical Center, will serve as the executive volunteer chair of the 2024-2025 Greater Maryland Go Red for Women® movement, a comprehensive platform designed more than two decades ago to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally.

According to the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined. Nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of CVD[1]. Heart disease and stroke continue to be women’s greatest health threat in Maryland.

“The Go Red for Women campaign is a perfect mix of my interest in education, healthcare, healthy lifestyles and recognizing that women have not always had the same education or opportunities in healthcare and leadership,” Dr. Detterline said. “We are at really special place where we can acknowledge that there are inequities in healthcare and feel compelled to make a difference and eradicate those inequities.”

Go Red for Women is a global movement with impact across the United States and in more than 50 countries around the world.

Funds from the Go Red for Women campaign and luncheon go toward saving and improving women’s lives by advancing equitable research and care, advocating for inclusive health policies and raising awareness of women’s number one health threat, cardiovascular disease.

“We know representation matters in all things, and Go Red for Women was really born more than 20 years ago from the recognition that research being done was not applicable to every patient population – specifically women,” said Tracy Brazelton, Executive Director of the American Heart Association, Baltimore & Greater Maryland division.

“Dr. Detterline’s vision of representation and equity in healthcare aligns perfectly with the Go Red for Women movement and we are so grateful for her leadership this year.”

This year’s Go Red for Women movement and its local achievements will be celebrated April 25, 2025, at the Greater Maryland Go Red for Women luncheon at the Marriott Owings Mills Metro Centre. The event experience focuses on connection and engagement, fostering an atmosphere of interaction and networking at every turn. It will celebrate the power of women banding together and the joy of spending time with fellow champions of our mission.

Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and the Greater Maryland Go Red for Women Luncheon is locally sponsored by University of Maryland Medical System, MedStar Health, LifeBridge Health and BRG. To learn more, email Roslyn Hannibal-Mercer, Director, Go Red for Women, at r.hannibal-mercer@heart.org, or visit www.heart.org/goredmd.

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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

Wayne Carter, wayne.carter@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org