It's National Wear Red Day! Here's What it Means
Every year, a sea of red sweeps through the nation on the first Friday of February. This isn’t just a fashion statement – it’s a powerful movement with a life-saving purpose. National Wear Red Day is all about raising awareness for women’s heart health and fighting cardiovascular disease – the leading cause of death for women in the United States.
National Wear Red Day
But what’s the story behind this initiative? Why is wearing red so important? And how can you take part in this mission? Let’s go the heart of the matter.
What is National Wear Red Day?
National Wear Red Day is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease and stroke in women. While heart disease has long been considered a “men’s problem,” the truth is that it affects women just as much – if not more.
The American Heart Association (AHA) launched the Go Red for Women campaign in 2004 to educate women about the risks of cardiovascular disease and to encourage them to take charge of their heart health.
Since then, this day has become a symbol of unity and empowerment. From workplaces to schools, people don red to show their support for the cause. It helps to spread the message that heart disease is preventable with the right knowledge and lifestyle choices.
When is National Wear Red Day?
Mark your calendar for Friday, February 7, 2025. Falling on the first Friday of Heart Health Month, it kicks off a month-long effort to shine a spotlight on cardiovascular health. This timing is intentional – February is recognized as Heart Health Awareness Month, making it the perfect opportunity to educate people about prevention, risks, and life-saving actions.
Why Wear Red?
Wearing red on this special day isn’t just about looking good – it’s about making a bold statement. Red symbolizes strength, energy, and urgency, all of which are crucial in the fight against heart disease. The simple act of donning a red dress, shirt, tie, or accessory can spark a conversation and spread awareness about the importance of heart health in women.
The statistics are sobering:
Cardiovascular disease claims the life of one woman every 80 seconds.
90% of women have at least one risk factor for heart disease or stroke.
80% of cardiovascular diseases can be prevented through education and lifestyle changes.
By wearing red, you become part of a national effort to change these numbers and inspire action.
How National Wear Red Day is Making an Impact
The impact of National Wear Red Day goes beyond just a single day of awareness. The Go Red for Women campaign works year-round to:
Fund Life-Saving Research: Donations and fundraising efforts support scientific studies focused on preventing and treating cardiovascular disease in women.
Educate and Empower Women: Through resources, events, and workshops, women learn how to recognize heart attack and stroke symptoms, adopt heart-healthy habits, and advocate for their own health.
Encourage Community Engagement: From corporate sponsorships to local events, businesses and people all across the country raise awareness and funds.
This movement has already led to significant progress in the fight against heart disease. Since the start of Go Red for Women, more women:
Recognize that heart disease is their number one health threat.
Have improved their diets and increased physical activity.
Are seeking medical advice and making heart-healthy choices.
How You Can Get Involved in Wear Red Day 2025
You don’t have to be a doctor or scientist to make a difference. There are many ways you can participate in Wear Red Day 2025 and help spread heart health awareness:
Wear Red: The simplest way to show support is to wear red on February 7, 2025. Whether it’s a red dress, scarf, hat, or even red lipstick, your choice makes a statement.
Share on Social Media: Use hashtags like #WearRedDay, #GoRedForWomen, and #HeartHealthAwarenessMonth to spread awareness. Post a picture, share a fact, or tell a personal story.
Attend or Organize an Event: Many workplaces, schools, and communities host fundraisers, educational events, and heart screenings. Check out local events or set up your own.
Learn About Your Heart Health: Take the time to understand your risk factors and make heart-healthy changes in your diet, exercise, and stress management.
Support the Cause: Consider donating to the American Heart Association or other organizations dedicated to cardiovascular research and education.
Recognizing the Signs of Heart Disease in Women
One of the biggest challenges in fighting heart disease is recognizing the symptoms – especially in women. Unlike the dramatic chest-clutching heart attacks often portrayed in movies, women’s heart attack symptoms can be more subtle. Warning signs include:
Unusual fatigue
Shortness of breath
Nausea or dizziness
Pain or discomfort in the back, neck, or jaw
Chest pain or discomfort (though not always severe)
Many women dismiss these symptoms as stress or the flu, delaying critical treatment. Understanding these warning signs and seeking immediate medical attention can save lives.
Heart Health Awareness Month: A Time for Action
While National Wear Red Day is the highlight, it’s just the beginning of Heart Health Awareness Month. Throughout February, healthcare professionals, organizations, and communities host events, screenings, and educational campaigns focused on cardiovascular wellness. It’s a month-long reminder to take control of our heart health and encourage others to do the same.
Some key ways to promote heart health year-round include:
Eating a heart-healthy diet (more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins)
Getting regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week)
Managing stress effectively (meditation, deep breathing, or hobbies can help)
Knowing your numbers (blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels matter)
Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake
Be a Part of the Movement
National Wear Red Day is more than just a day on the calendar – it’s a call to action. By participating, you’re not just raising awareness; you’re helping to change the narrative around women’s heart health. Whether it’s wearing red, donating to heart disease research, or making healthier choices in your daily life, every action counts.
As we endeavor to make 2025 our best year yet, let’s keep an eye on our heart health. Keep coming back for more health-related tips to help you live life to the fullest while protecting your heart.