Around the world, one in three women will unfortunately die of a stroke and heart disease. On Friday, February 6, 2015, the center for leadership and service [CLS] will be “going red” in efforts to beat the odds and stop heart disease. Wear Red Day will take place in the University Center [UC] atrium from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The CLS office has hosted Wear Red Day for about 5 years now. “We were inspired to host this awareness day [because of] the surprising statistic that every one in three women die from heart disease. Although men are just as deeply affected by this disease, heart disease is the number one killer of women. Having this knowledge jump-started our need to bring awareness to college students on how to stay healthy physically and mentally,” explained Abby Gallego, senior service specialist for CLS.
Reports from The American Heart Association show that heart disease is the number one killer of women in this country. Heart disease is caused by cigarette smoke, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. This is sadly a lifelong condition that cannot be cured, and it can lead to a heart attack and death. Symptoms include chest pains and difficulty while exercising. Shortness of breath and headaches can also be symptoms but sometimes there are no symptoms at all.
Treatment and diagnosis for hearth disease may vary, but if anyone is experiencing symptoms of heart disease they should speak to a doctor. A doctor can diagnose and treat the patient according to the individual's needs. “Prevention is key when you are provided with the right resources and tools to take care of your heart,” said Gallego.
This is the time for the Kean University community to come together to beat the odds and defeat heart disease. “We hope Kean [University] students can gain a better understanding of what it means to be 'heart healthy' and pay forward this knowledge to family and friends. Ultimately, we hope to also contribute to the reduction of these numbers each year,” said Gallego.
When someone thinks about heart disease the image of the “little red dress” might be the first thing that pops into their mind as it has become a symbol for women's heart disease. Iconic red dress pins will be available for donations on Friday, February 6, 2015. Throughout the day, information and heart-healthy snack options will be available. “We would expect to have a decent sized turn out! We will be providing information tables, activities, and prizes to support a heart healthy life style,” encouraged Gallego
Everyone is encouraged to participate by wearing red attire to support awareness of heart disease. For more information about the upcoming Wear Red Day feel free to visit CougarLink. Also, feel free to contact CLS by phone 908-737-5170, by email Serve@kean.edu, or by stopping by UC room 219.
