The Heart Truth

A national campaign to raise awareness about heart disease in women

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Dania Ramirez at a Heart Truth event

The Heart Truth is a national awareness campaign in the United States aimed at educating women about the risks of heart disease. The campaign was launched by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) in 2002. It seeks to empower women to take action to protect their heart health and to raise awareness that heart disease is the leading cause of death among women.

History

The Heart Truth campaign was initiated in response to the growing recognition that heart disease was not just a "man's disease," but a significant health threat to women as well. The campaign was designed to address the lack of awareness among women about their risk for heart disease and to promote heart-healthy lifestyles.

The Red Dress Symbol

First Lady Laura Bush at a Red Dress Collection event

The Red Dress was introduced as the national symbol for women and heart disease awareness. It serves as a visual reminder to women to take care of their heart health. The Red Dress symbol is used in various promotional materials and events to draw attention to the cause.

Events and Initiatives

The Heart Truth campaign organizes several events and initiatives to spread its message. One of the most notable events is the Red Dress Collection Fashion Show, which features celebrities and designers showcasing red dresses to symbolize the fight against heart disease in women.

Group shot from the Red Dress Collection 2005

The campaign also collaborates with various organizations, healthcare providers, and community groups to promote heart health education and screenings. These partnerships help to extend the reach of the campaign and provide resources for women to learn about heart disease prevention.

Celebrity Involvement

Celebrities play a significant role in The Heart Truth campaign by participating in events and using their platforms to raise awareness. Notable figures such as Hilary Duff, Dania Ramirez, and others have been involved in the campaign, helping to draw media attention and engage the public.

Hilary Duff at a Heart Truth event

Impact

Since its inception, The Heart Truth campaign has significantly increased awareness about heart disease in women. Surveys and studies have shown that more women are now aware of their risk for heart disease and are taking steps to improve their heart health. The campaign has also contributed to a broader public understanding of heart disease as a critical health issue for women.

Related pages

• Heart disease
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
• Women's health