American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women Movement Raises Awareness and Major Funds for Women’s Cardiovascular Health
SEATTLE, March 6, 2026 — Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death in women1, yet less than half are aware of this critical risk. The American Heart Association, dedicated to improving the future of health for all, is driving change through the Go Red for Women® movement. This initiative unites women globally to understand their risk factors and combat the number one killer of women.
Go Red for Women is a platform where community, connection, and action converge. Puget Sound’s recent Go Red for Women experience empowered 250 individuals to learn about women’s heart and brain health and support vital research, education, and advocacy. The program honored survivors, celebrated advancements in cardiovascular health, and raised $870,000 to further improve the identification, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of CVD in women.
Personal Stories Fuel the Fight
During the event, Megan Johnson of Auburn, Washington, shared her experience of suffering a heart attack at age 32. Johnson emphasized the importance of including women in cardiovascular research, as the cause of her heart attack remains unknown. She urged Go Red for Women supporters to advocate for inclusion in life-saving science and to continue supporting the movement’s efforts to champion women’s heart and brain health.
The Scope of the Problem
Nearly half of women aged 20 and over live with some form of cardiovascular disease2. Women also face unique cardiovascular risks related to life stages such as pregnancy and menopause3. Despite this, women remain underrepresented in cardiovascular research.
“Cardiovascular disease is still the leading cause of death among women, and events like this raise awareness and provide information so women can understand their risks and how to reduce them,” said Florence Chang, president of Go Red For Women in Puget Sound and MultiCare Health System. “Women thrive when they have the awareness, knowledge, and resources to prioritize their own care.”
Supporting the Movement
Go Red For Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and locally supported by MultiCare Health System, T-Mobile, and Cambia Health Foundation. To contribute to the Go Red For Women movement in Puget Sound, visit heart.org/PugetSoundGoRed.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a driving force for a world of longer, healthier lives. For over a century, the organization has been a leading source of health information, committed to health equity in all communities. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers worldwide, the Association funds cutting-edge research, advocates for public health, and provides critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease, and stroke. Learn more at heart.org.
About Go Red For Women®
Go Red For Women®, the American Heart Association’s signature initiative, is a comprehensive platform dedicated to raising awareness of women’s heart health and driving change to improve women’s lives globally. Recognizing that cardiovascular diseases claim the lives of approximately 1 in 3 women, Go Red For Women has worked for over two decades to raise awareness, harness the collective power of women, and empower them to take control of their heart health. For more information, visit GoRedforWomen.org.
Media Inquiries:
Lily Gordon: lily.gordon@heart.org
Valerie Koch: valerie.koch@heart.org
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
Related reading