The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, in partnership with the American Heart Association, are recognizing National Wear Red Day on Friday, February 6, 2026. This annual event is dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease in women—a condition that claims more lives each year than all forms of cancer combined. RaeAnn Tucker, Director of Health Promotion, emphasizes that many women underestimate their risk and may not recognize symptoms until it’s too late. Residents are encouraged to wear red to spark conversation and support. Risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, and inactivity are key concerns and can often be controlled or prevented.
RaeAnn Tucker, Director of Health Promotion with the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, said, “Women often do not take their risk of heart disease seriously or personally. However, Heart Disease is the number 1 killer of women, killing more than all forms of cancer combined. Many of these deaths can be prevented, but most women don’t notice the symptoms until it’s too late. That’s why it’s been called the silent killer. You can help increase awareness of women’s heart health by wearing red, speaking up, and uniting with millions of women to help save lives across America.”
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for American women over 20, claiming about one life every minute. Compared to breast cancer, heart disease poses a much higher risk, with one in three women dying from it. The Health Department and First Choice Healthcare note that 90% of women have at least one risk factor, such as smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, elevated cholesterol, obesity, and physical inactivity. Addressing these risks through lifestyle changes can dramatically lower heart disease risk by up to 82%. Women are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals to assess personal risk and take preventive steps.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments remind residents that protecting heart health is vital year-round. Local First Choice Healthcare Clinics offer screenings and consultations to help monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and other risk factors associated with heart disease. Residents are encouraged to contact the Kewanee office at 309-852-5272 or the Toulon location at 309-852-3115 for more details on available services. Additional resources and updates can be found on the Henry and Stark County Health Departments’ and First Choice Healthcare social media pages, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Prioritizing regular checkups may help prevent serious heart issues.