The American Heart Association is raising awareness about heart disease in women. Officials said it remains the number one cause of death of both women and men in the United States.

What You Need To Know

  • The American Heart Association is using today to remind people about improving heart health

  • Today is known as "National Wear Red Day," an effort to wear red to promote healthy habits like increasing exercise and developing healthier habits

  • Statistics show that 45% of women in the U.S. who are 20 and older are living with heart disease

"National Wear Red Day" reminds us to become educated about things like diet and exercise. Friday, people were encouraged to wear red and share photos using the hashtags #GoRed and #WearRedDay on social media.

You can visit www.GoRedforWomen.org to find healthy recipes, cooking tips, and survivor stories. Officials said even just one little change in our lives can make big difference.

"Add more exercise to your daily routine. You can add fruits and vegetables to every meal. Cut back on sodium and sugar, and avoid tobacco and vaping. Those are really four of the big healthy heart habits that can help protect your heart health," said American Heart Association Greater Syracuse Communications Director Kristy Smorol.

Health experts told us heart disease is 80% preventable. Wear Red Day is part of American Heart Month, which takes place in the month of February. ​