MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 27, 2023 — Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the United States, claiming more lives each year than all forms of cancer combined. 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.[1]

Stacy Beske, vice president integration business leader at Medtronic and her daughter, Skylar Radford, hope to challenge this alarming trend as co-chairs of the 2023 Twin Cities Go Red for Women® movement.

Go Red for Women is an initiative of the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women locally, nationally and globally. The yearlong campaign culminates locally in the signature Twin Cities Go Red for Women Evening of Empowerment on Feb. 9 at Quincy Hall.

“Thanks to the women who have come before me, we’ve made tremendous progress in the fight against cardiovascular disease,” Beske said. “It’s now our responsibility to ensure the next generation is prepared to tackle their number one health threat. That’s why Skylar’s leadership with Go Red for Women is so critical.”  

With an emphasis on engaging young women, this year’s Twin Cities Go Red for Women campaign addresses women’s heart health topics including maternal, rural and mental health.

“As a high school student and athlete, maintaining my mental health is essential for my overall health and wellbeing,” Radford said. “I want more young women to know it’s important to take care of ourselves, both physically and mentally, so we can help lift others up.”

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.[2] Partnered with the decline in women’s awareness of their leading cause of death, it’s important for all women to take charge of their heart health and encourage others to do the same.

Each February during American Heart Month, guests rally at the heart-healthy event to help advance women's health through research, education, awareness and advocacy initiatives. National Wear Red Day® kicks off the commemorative month on Friday, Feb. 3, when landmarks, news anchors and neighborhoods go red to raise awareness and support the fight against heart disease.

For more information on Twin Cities Go Red for Women, visit heart.org/twincitiesgoredevents.  

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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 19 years, 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).
 

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.orgFacebookTwitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. 
 

Media Contact:
Lisa Cole: Lisa.Cole@Heart.org
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org