Taking Health to Heart
By Office of the President | Feb 25, 2025
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women in the United States, affecting
millions every year. In recognition of American Heart Month, Downstate and Medgar Evers College joined forces for a Go Red community outreach event. The initiative underscored the importance of prevention,
education, and access to care—particularly for women of color, who are disproportionately
affected by cardiovascular disease.
According to the American Heart Association’s 2025 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update, nearly 45 percent of women over the age of 20 are living with some form of cardiovascular disease (CVD). It is also the leading cause of maternal mortality in the United States. These stark realities emphasize the urgent need for community-driven efforts like Go Red to empower women with the knowledge and resources to take charge of their heart health.
The event provided attendees with free heart health education, blood pressure screenings, weight management guidance, and nutrition counseling—practical tools to support healthier lifestyles. Access to care was also a key focus, ensuring women had the necessary resources to follow up on their health concerns.
Among those advocating for heart health were Betty Jung, RN, from SUNY Downstate’s Center for Community Health Promotion and Wellness, and Deena Asghar, an MPH student at Downstate’s School of Public Health. They proudly wore red in solidarity with the movement, reinforcing that every woman—regardless of age, background, or circumstance—deserves the opportunity to lead a long and healthy life.
By prioritizing community education and outreach, initiatives like Go Red have the power to reduce hypertension rates and improve cardiovascular outcomes. The collaboration between Downstate and Medgar Evers College reflects a shared commitment to women’s health and serves as a call to action: Women must prioritize their heart health, advocate for preventive care, and support one another in the fight against cardiovascular disease.
Check out Downstate’s own on-campus Go Red event. See the photo gallery and video here: