Kentucky Cardiologists Urge Women to "Go Red" This February
National Wear Red Day and American Heart Month Highlight Critical Need for Heart Health Awareness in the Commonwealth
LEXINGTON, Ky. (February 2, 2026) – The Kentucky Chapter of the American College of Cardiology (KYACC) is calling on all Kentuckians, especially women, to prioritize their heart health, during February’s American Heart Month! KYACC encourages residents to participate in National Wear Red Day on Friday, February 6, 2026, and to access valuable heart health resources, including educational PSA videos, at www.kentuckyacc.org.
"As a cardiologist practicing in Kentucky, I see firsthand the devastating impact of heart disease on women and families across our Commonwealth," said Michele Friday, MD, FACC, a cardiologist and Director of the Womens Heart Program at UK Kings Daughter Hospital in Ashland, Kentucky and the Chair of the Women in Cardiology Section of the KYACC. "The good news is that up to 80% of cardiovascular disease is preventable through lifestyle modifications."
Kentucky Faces a Heart Health Crisis
- Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Kentucky, accounting for approximately one in five deaths in the Commonwealth.
- Kentucky's heart disease death rate is 216.3 per 100,000 residents—23.3% higher than the national average.
- Kentucky is tied as the second least heart-healthy state in the nation, with a coronary heart disease rate of 6.3%.
- Eighteen Kentucky counties rank among the worst in the entire country for cardiovascular health, with the Appalachian region experiencing some of the highest rates of heart disease in the developed world.
- Kentucky leads the nation in prevalence of multiple cardiovascular risk factors, including smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity.
Women and Heart Disease: A Hidden Threat
Many women are surprised to learn that cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women in America. Heart disease causes one in three deaths among women each year, claiming more lives than all forms of cancer combined. Yet only 44% of women recognize cardiovascular disease as their greatest health threat.
Women often experience heart attack symptoms differently than men. While chest pain remains a warning sign, women are more likely to experience shortness of breath, nausea, back or jaw pain, extreme fatigue, and lightheadedness. These atypical symptoms can lead to delays in seeking emergency care and receiving a correct diagnosis.
Heart-Healthy Tips for Kentuckians. The Kentucky Chapter of the ACC recommends these evidence-based strategies for improving heart health:
- Know Your Numbers: Schedule regular check-ups to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
- Move More: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week—even walking counts!
- Eat Heart-Smart: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and limit sodium and processed foods.
- Quit Tobacco: Smoking is a leading risk factor for heart disease.
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to heart disease. Prioritize sleep, relaxation, and mental well-being.
- Learn CPR: Women are less likely to receive bystander CPR. Be prepared to help save a life.
- Seek Help: Schedule a wellness visit with your healthcare provider to assess your cardiovascular risk.
Together, we can change Kentucky's heart health story. For more information, heart-healthy tips, and PSA videos, visit www.kentuckyacc.org.
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About the Kentucky Chapter of the American College of Cardiology
The Kentucky Chapter of the American College of Cardiology is dedicated to transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health across the Commonwealth. Through education, advocacy, and community outreach, the chapter works to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease in Kentucky. For more information, visit www.kentuckyacc.org.