Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Amy Grant is leveraging her personal experience with heart surgery to spotlight the urgent need for increased awareness and research funding for cardiovascular disease in women. In collaboration with the American Heart Association, Grant is spearheading a new year-end giving and public service announcement campaign to address the leading cause of death among women in the United States. Grant underwent open-heart surgery in 2020 to correct a rare condition that her doctor described as a ticking time bomb, and her recovery underscores the importance of early detection and treatment of cardiovascular issues.
The campaign comes at a crucial time as cardiovascular disease remains the number one killer of women, causing one in five female deaths annually. Despite this alarming statistic, awareness and research specific to women's heart health continue to lag. Nearly 45% of women over 20 are living with some form of cardiovascular disease, highlighting the widespread nature of this health crisis. Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, emphasized the organization's commitment to pursuing a world free from cardiovascular disease and stroke, stating that together we can help ensure everyone everywhere has access to a long healthy life, especially women impacted by heart disease.
The AHA has identified significant gaps in understanding how cardiovascular disease uniquely affects women. Research has shown that women are often underrepresented in clinical trials, leading to critical knowledge gaps. The organization is committed to bridging these disparities by investing in more inclusive research and developing stronger resources tailored to women's specific heart health needs. Grant's involvement in the campaign brings a powerful personal element to the cause, with the artist stating that the risk to women is often overlooked, yet the numbers tell a story we cannot ignore.
To amplify the impact of donations, the AHA has established matching opportunities for contributions made through December 31. These matched donations will support initiatives aligned with the Association's 2028 Impact Goal, focusing on advancing research, education, and community programs to combat heart disease and stroke. The campaign also highlights the AHA's efforts to address cardiovascular risks women face at different life stages, including pregnancy and menopause. By increasing focus on these areas, the organization aims to provide more comprehensive support for women's heart health throughout their lives.
As the AHA celebrates its centennial year of lifesaving work, this campaign represents a renewed commitment to women's cardiovascular health. The organization's goal is to ensure that success stories like Amy Grant's become the norm rather than the exception. Those interested in learning more about cardiovascular disease in women can visit the Go Red for Women® website. To support the American Heart Association's mission, individuals can visit helpheart.org.
