Seattle, WA – Hundreds of individuals from across the Puget Sound region came together on March 6, 2026, to support the American Heart Association’s Proceed Red for Women movement, raising $870,000 to advance research, education, and advocacy for women’s cardiovascular health. The event underscored a critical public health issue: heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women, yet awareness of this risk remains surprisingly low.
The Puget Sound Go Red for Women Experience empowered 250 guests to learn about the unique heart and brain health challenges women face and how to mitigate them. The initiative aims to connect women with vital information and resources, fostering a community dedicated to fighting cardiovascular disease (CVD). This year’s program not only celebrated advancements in cardiovascular care but likewise honored the stories of survivors, highlighting the importance of early detection and proactive health management.
Megan Johnson, a 32-year-old woman from Auburn, Washington, shared her personal experience of suffering a heart attack. Johnson’s story emphasized the require for greater inclusion of women in cardiovascular research, as the cause of her heart attack remains unexplained. She passionately called on supporters of Go Red for Women to advocate for increased representation in scientific studies, ensuring that research accurately reflects the diverse experiences of women and leads to more effective treatments. “Cardiovascular disease is still the No. 1 killer of women, and events like this one are essential to raising awareness and providing information so women understand their risks — and how to reduce them,” said Florence Chang, Puget Sound Go Red for Women chair and president of MultiCare Health System.
The Disproportionate Impact of Heart Disease on Women
Nearly half of women aged 20 and older – approximately 48% – are living with some form of cardiovascular disease, according to the American Heart Association. This statistic underscores the widespread nature of the problem and the urgent need for preventative measures. Women also experience unique physiological changes, such as pregnancy and menopause, that can significantly impact their cardiovascular risk factors. Despite these increased vulnerabilities, women remain underrepresented in cardiovascular research, hindering the development of targeted therapies and diagnostic tools.
The Go Red for Women movement, nationally sponsored by CVS Health and locally supported by MultiCare Health System, T-Mobile, and Cambia Health Foundation, is actively working to address this disparity. The initiative strives to empower women to prioritize their heart health by providing access to information, resources, and a supportive community. Florence Chang emphasized that “women prosper when they have the awareness, knowledge, and resources needed to prioritize their own care.”
Advocating for Inclusive Research
Johnson’s call for greater inclusion in research resonated throughout the event. The lack of representation in clinical trials and studies can lead to misdiagnosis, ineffective treatments, and poorer health outcomes for women. By demanding to be included in lifesaving science, Go Red for Women supporters are advocating for a more equitable and effective approach to cardiovascular care.
The American Heart Association is a relentless force dedicated to improving health for all, with over 35 million volunteers worldwide. The organization funds cutting-edge research, advocates for public health policies, and provides essential resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. More information about the American Heart Association’s work can be found at heart.org.
For those interested in supporting the Go Red for Women movement in Puget Sound, donations can be made at heart.org/PugetSoundGoRed.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about heart health and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions you may have regarding your health.
The ongoing efforts of the American Heart Association and the Go Red for Women movement are crucial in raising awareness and driving positive change in women’s cardiovascular health. Continued advocacy, research, and community engagement will be essential to reducing the burden of heart disease and improving the lives of women for generations to come. What are your thoughts on the importance of inclusive research in women’s health?
