INDIANA – This Friday, February 6, a crimson wave will sweep across Indiana and the nation as communities celebrate National Wear Red Day. Held annually on the first Friday of February, the event serves as a high-visibility cornerstone of American Heart Month, aiming to turn the tide against the country’s leading killer.
While the sea of red is a celebration, the statistics behind it remain sobering. Heart disease is the leading cause of death both nationally and in Indiana, accounting for 1 in 3 deaths.
However, there is significant cause for optimism. Over the last 30 years, heart disease mortality rates have plummeted by more than 50 percent. This progress is largely attributed to aggressive research, medical breakthroughs, and public education. Experts emphasize that the power of prevention is in the hands of the public: a majority of cardiac events can be thwarted through healthy lifestyle choices.
“By wearing red, we aren’t just making a fashion statement,” says a representative for the cause. “We are acknowledging a shared commitment to education and life-saving research that has already saved millions of lives.”
How to Join the Movement
Millions of Americans—including celebrities and media personalities—will participate this Friday. If you want to join the effort to save lives, here is how you can get involved:
- Go Red: Wear your favorite red clothing or accessories to show your support.
- Learn a Life-Saving Skill: Take just two minutes to learn Hands-Only CPR at heart.org/handsonlycpr.
- Spread the Word: Share your “Go Red” photos on social media using the hashtag #WearRedDay and tag @AHAIndiana.
- Support the Mission: Donate to fund critical research and education at heart.org/WearRedDay.
Quick Facts: Heart Disease in Focus
| Statistic | Impact |
| National Standing | Leading cause of death in the U.S. |
| Local Impact | Leading cause of death in Indiana |
| Fatality Rate | Responsible for 1 in 3 deaths |
| 30-Year Trend | Mortality rates dropped by over 50% |
| Prevention | Majority of events are preventable via lifestyle |
