Chicago, Illinois, February 2, 2024 - Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has proclaimed February American Heart Month in the city. Mayor Johnson paid special attention to the need for greater healthcare equity, emphasizing the need for cardiovascular health awareness for women. The first Friday in February is also National Wear Red Day as part of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women initiative. Coast to coast, landmarks, news anchors and neighborhoods go red to raise awareness and support for the fight against heart disease. In Chicago, buildings downtown will go red to mark the event. For more information on the event and other activities during the month, visit goredforwomen.org.
“Mayor Johnson has been open about his mother’s struggle with heart disease and it’s clear that for his administration that the fight against heart disease is personal. Chicago city government has shown time and again its commitment to heart health. The American Heart Association has worked closely with the previous and current administrations to secure funding for much-needed CPR kits in Chicago Public Schools,” said Lauren Peters, Senior Regional Lead for Midwest Government Relations. “This vital life-saving equipment will save lives. We are excited to continue to work with the Johnson Administration for better heart health in Chicago and secure longer healthier lives for all the city’s residents.”
According to the Proclamation:
“WHEREAS, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all forms of cancer combined and yet only 44% of women recognize that cardiovascular disease is their greatest health threat; and
WHEREAS, among females 20 years and older, nearly 45% are living with some form of cardiovascular disease and less than half of women entering pregnancy in the United States have optimal cardiovascular health; and
WHEREAS, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of maternal death in the U.S., or more simply put, heart disease is the No. 1 killer of new moms, and
WHEREAS, overall, 10% to 20% of women will have a health issue during pregnancy, and high blood pressure, preeclampsia and gestational diabetes during pregnancy greatly increase a women’s risk for developing cardiovascular disease later in life; and
WHEREAS, there are significant biological differences between men and women, and clinical trials have not always adequately enrolled women or analyzed sex-specific differences in the data; and, as of 2020, only 38% of cardiovascular clinical research trial participants are women; and
WHEREAS, since 2004, the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women® movement has addressed the awareness and clinical care gaps of women’s greatest health threat, cardiovascular disease, and, on the cusp of the American Heart Association’s 100th anniversary, continues to make bold moves to save lives and pioneer scientific discoveries;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Brandon Johnson, Mayor of the City of Chicago, do hereby proclaim February as American Heart Month in Chicago and recognize the importance of the ongoing fight against heart disease and stroke, and the effort to double the survival rate from cardiac arrest."
Dated this 1st day of February 2024,
Signed by Brandon Johnson, the Mayor of Chicago
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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 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).
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.
For media inquiries:
Erin Kesler; Erin.kesler@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org