MADISON -- On Friday employees at Boone Memorial Hospital wore red in support of the American Heart Association’s (AHA) National Wear Red Day. According to the AHA the color red is a confidence booster and makes you feel powerful, one reason why the organization chose the color red to signify their fight against the No. 1 killer in women. Maybe it’s just a coincidence that it’s also the color of our hearts. In 2003, the American Heart Association and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute took action against a disease that was claiming the lives of nearly 500,000 American women each year – a disease that women weren’t paying attention to. A disease they truly believed, and many still believe to this day, affects more men than women. Stemming from that action, National Wear Red Day was born. It’s held on the first Friday in February every year to raise awareness about heart disease being the No. 1 killer of women. This year marks the 10-year anniversary of Wear Red Day. The AHA is proud to report they have really made tremendous strides along the way, including: • 21 percent fewer women dying from heart disease • 23 percent more women aware that it’s their No. 1 health threat • Publishing of gender-specific results, established differences in symptoms and responses to medications, and women- specific guidelines for prevention and treatment • Legislation to help end gender disparities The AHA admits that despite their progress, women are still dying. They’re still unaware of their risks and the facts. The AHA reminds us that now is not the time for complacency. It’s time to stand stronger, speak louder and join in the fight. To learn more about heart health, Boone Memorial Hospital is organizing a Lunch and Learn this month. The date is yet to be determined. However, to be added to the mailing list and receive an invitation, please contact the Marketing Director, Karlie Belle Price by emailing kprice@bmh.org or calling 304-369-1230 x431. Please leave your name, address and phone number on the voicemail or email. For more information about heart health visit http://www.goredforwomen.org/ For more information about Boone Memorial Hospital visit www.bmh.org