The heart health fair raised awareness about the signs, symptoms, and risks associated with heart disease. In the U.S., approximately 43 million women are living with heart disease.

“Statistics now show that 1 out of every 4 women will die from cardiovascular disease, with the greatest risk in young women, particularly women of color,” said Dr. Rachel M. Bond, member of the ABC Cardiovascular Disease in Women Committee. “This accounts for thousands of mothers and sisters who are still dying prematurely of heart disease and stroke. The fact remains that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women.  In several decades since the Go Red initiative, a multitude of women’s lives have been saved nationally. With our own Dignity Health women’s heart health program and initiative, we have since become the predominant center for all women’s health needs.”  

Attendees had access to complimentary screenings including cholesterol testing, blood pressure, and blood glucose level checks, weight, and body mass index measurements as well as discounted coronary artery calcium scores to assess for subclinical plaque within the arteries.  The attendees were also educated about the importance of hands-only CPR, heart valve disease, and peripheral arterial disease, which women are less aggressively treated for.  They also learned about the importance of cardiac rehab and had access to speak with a clinical pharmacist, registered dietician, sleep disorder center, weight management clinic, the WomenHeart support group champions, and the American Heart Association of Greater Phoenix on the importance of advocacy with emphasis on their anti-vaping campaign.

When they left, they left empowered with greater education and self-awareness.  There’s much enthusiasm in the world of women’s heart health, gender disparities, and racial disparities, but Dignity Health is making that traction through their actions.