by Lisa Germinsky
Be your own Valentine and show your heart a little love. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the U.S. And although quitting smoking can prevent another leading cause of death, lung cancer mortality continues to rise. Get educated (and put out that cigarette!).
The Heart Truth
Here Are the Facts:
Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in America.
Many women fail to connect risk factors to their own chance for disease.
Photo courtesty of Red Dress Charm for Diet Coke
Model Citizen: Heidi Klum
Returning as the Heart Truth’s health ambassador, Heidi Klum will not only rock the runway, but she has also designed a Red Dress Charm for Diet Coke. Encrusted in rubies and diamonds, its hourglass shape reminds women it’s time to get educated.
“I am proud to be part of this great cause. I hope that by me talking about the No. 1 killer of women in America, more people will take notice and get tested [for heart disease] in time.” —Heidi Klum
Why This Org Rocks:
The Heart Truth channels the power of the Red Dress by calling on top designers. One-of-a-kind red dresses deliver the hard truth to women: “Heart Disease Doesn’t Care What You Wear.” The collection shows at New York’s Fashion Week.
Ways to Make a Difference:
Check up. Ask your doctor if you’re at risk for heart disease.
Get your red on. Celebrate National Wear Red Day on Friday, February 6.
Save lives. Educate yourself and spread the word to women you love.
Smoking Is Ugly
Here Are the Facts:
More people die from lung cancer than any other kind of cancer.
Smoking kills an estimated 178,400 women annually in America.
Photo by Getty Images
Model Citizen: Christy Turlington
After losing her dad to smoking, former pack-a-day puffer Christy Turlington decided that smoking wasn’t anything but ugly. After finally quitting cold turkey, she became addicted to education and prevention.
Why This Org Rocks:
The site is a great starting place to quit smoking or learn more about lung cancer. Christy has created an online educational resource and action community.
Ways to Make a Difference:
Get the facts. www.thetruth.com
Hi, my name is. . . Start a support group to quit smoking.
Celebrate survivors. Participate in your community’s Relay for Life. www.relayforlife.org
Other Orgs with the Same Cause:
