The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is marking National Wear Red Day on February 2, as well as Heart Health Month throughout February, by promoting education and action regarding cardiovascular disease. The department encourages residents to take advantage of programs focusing on cardiac health, such as the Illinois WISEWOMAN Program.
National Wear Red Day was established in 2004 by the American Heart Association to highlight that cardiovascular disease disproportionately affects women. This annual observance aims to empower women to prioritize their heart health during Heart Health Month.
“With heart disease remaining the number one killer both nationally and in Illinois, Heart Health Month is a great reminder for everyone to start living a heart-healthy lifestyle,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “The first step is to get screened to see if you have risk factors. So, schedule a check-up through your health provider or explore the services offered through your local health department or IDPH’s Illinois WISEWOMAN Program.”
Lt. Governor Julianna Stratton emphasized the importance of awareness, stating, “Wear Red Day spotlights the risk heart disease poses to our loved ones. Women are especially vulnerable during high-stress phases of life like pregnancy and menopause.” She urged participation in raising awareness by wearing red on February 2.
IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra pointed out that prevention begins with understanding personal risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol. He advised creating a heart-healthy plan and scheduling medical check-ups. "Heart disease is a preventable killer, but it can’t be prevented unless you are aware of your personal risk factors," he said.
The American Heart Association recommends several actions for reducing heart disease risk: eating healthier foods, engaging in regular physical activity, monitoring diet and exercise habits, getting adequate sleep, quitting tobacco use, and ensuring normal levels of blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
The Illinois WISEWOMAN Program targets uninsured and underinsured women across 52 counties in the state. Eligibility includes being aged 40-64 with income below 250% of the poverty level and enrollment in the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP). For more information or to enroll in IBCCP, individuals can contact the Women’s Health Line.
Alerts Sign-up