Go Red on February 1st Every Great Cause Has to Start Somewhere. This One Starts With You.

Galesburg, IL – The Knox County Health Department is joining the American Heart Association by encouraging individuals in Knox County to Go Red on February 1, 2008 to increase awareness of heart disease. Wear Red Day is a component of the American Heart Association’s national Go Red for Women campaign, which encourages women to take charge of their health.

Cardiovascular disease (heart disease) continues to be the #1 killer of men and women in the United States, claiming more lives every year than cancer, accidents, Alzheimer’s disease and HIV. Coronary heart disease is the most common form of heart disease, and the leading cause of death for Americans. One in 10 American women 45-64 years of age has some form of heart disease; this increases to one in five women after age 65.  In 2005, Knox County had 155 deaths caused by coronary heart disease. 

“At the Knox County Health Department, employees will participate in the campaign because for many of them heart disease is personal,” said Carrie Neff Andrews, Director of Health Education and Promotion. “Wear Red Day is an opportunity for everyone to remember their female friends and family members who have suffered from the disease. It’s also a time to think about their own heart health. Since heart disease affects so many of our employees’ personal lives, Wear Red Day is a perfect fit.”

Other area businesses taking part in Wear Red Day are: Knox County Employees, OSF St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg Cottage Hospital, Galesburg School District 205, Knox College, Galesburg Clinic, Wal-Mart SuperCenter, and Hy-Vee (National Blvd. and E Main Street locations).

For more information about National Heart Month, Wear Red Day, or the Go Red for Women campaign, please contact the Knox County Health Department at (309) 344-2224, or call the American Heart Association at 1-888-MY-HEART.