February is American Heart Month, a time when all people can focus on their cardiovascular health.

The American Heart Association’s signature women’s initiative, Go Red for Women, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally.

No one should have to choose between seeking medical care or paying rent. Or worry about having a safe place for their children to play and whether or not they can put a healthy meal on the table. So many Milwaukeeans, experience similar barriers to their health, which have only been further exasperated by COVID-19.

These health disparities often lead to increased risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes and obesity, as well as cause chronic stress and poor mental health. They have also led to huge gaps in life expectancy across Milwaukee. Those living in the 53206-zip code, live 12 years less than residents living just 4 miles away in 53217.

The American Heart Association does not want any family to have to make these impossible decisions. We are committed to making progress towards greater health equity for all Milwaukeeans: by funding lifesaving research, patient quality care programs, and public policy efforts.

All of this work is rooted in our mission statement: to be a relentless force, for a world of longer, healthier lives.