Celebrate National Wear Red Day because heart disease, stroke are preventable

WAUWATOSA (WITI) -- Red is always the color MaryAnn Camacho wears on the first Friday in February.

"It makes me feel strong. It makes me feel like I know that I can take charge," said Camacho.

Both of Camacho's parents suffer from cardiovascular disease and her grandfather died from a stroke, that's why she's going red for heart health. Her colleagues at GE Healthcare are joining her, as they work directly with equipment that detects and helps prevent heart disease.

"Sharing with others that it doesn't need to be a silent killer you can bring it out in the open and do something about it," said Camacho.

On National Wear Red Day, the American Heart Association asks everyone to wear red to inspire people to take care of their heart.

"Nearly 1 in 3 women die from heart disease or stroke in this country. But only 1 in 5 see it as their greatest health threat and that's part of the disconnect we're trying to work on here," said American Heart Association Communications Director Jay Matz.

Lifestyle changes and knowing your blood pressure, blood cholesterol, and body mass index can dramatically reduce your risk for heart disease.

"80 percent of heart disease and stroke is preventable. So that's if you quite smoking, you start exercising regularly, and you eat a healthier diet," said Matz.

It's also important to know the warning signs.

"Men tend to have the Hollywood heart attack you know where they get the pain in their chest. Women often times will get neck pain or jaw pain, they might get very nauseous, they might start sweating profusely," said Matz.

Although Friday is designated as National Wear Red Day, officials with the American Heart Association hope that you make your heart health a priority every day of the year.

To learn more about heart disease and National Wear Red Day CLICK HERE.