Red for Women Day to raise awareness of heart disease

The American Heart Association has declared Friday to be National Wear Red for Women Day.

Go Red for Women is a nationwide campaign, sponsored by the American Heart Association. Its purpose is to raise awareness of heart disease as women's No. 1 killer, and empower women with the knowledge they need to take charge of their health. Heart disease and stroke are largely preventable.

Cardiovascular disease claims more than 500,000 women's lives per year. That's more than the next seven causes of death combined, including cancer, according to the McHenry County Department of Health.

• Some positive steps you can take to reduce your risk are:

• See your physician for an annual exam.

• Have your cholesterol screened when you have your physical exam.

• Monitor your results as often as your physician recommends.

• Exercise 3 to 5 times per week for 30 to 45 minutes each time. Such aerobic exercise as walking, biking or calisthenics is best.

• Eat a heart-healthy diet. Eat a variety of foods and also reduce fat, cholesterol and salt intake.

• Learn to reduce stress. Relaxation tapes, exercise and deep breathing can help.

• Avoid cigarette smoking.

Show your commitment to improving health and saving lives -- Wear Red on Friday.

For more information, visit the www.americanheart.org.