Andrade and American Heart Association recognize National Wear Red Day for American Heart Month

State Rep. Mike Andrade (D-Munster) is encouraging Hoosiers to wear red on Thursday, Feb. 5, in recognition of National Wear Red Day and to take action throughout February during American Heart Month to combat heart disease and stroke, the leading causes of death for women in the United States.

National Wear Red Day, led by the American Heart Association (AHA), raises awareness about women’s heart health and the critical need for education, prevention and life-saving action.

“Heart disease touches nearly every family, and too often it impacts women in ways that go unseen or unrecognized. National Wear Red Day is about awareness, but it is also about action, learning CPR, knowing your health numbers and standing up for women’s health at every stage of life,” Andrade said.

Nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of cardiovascular disease, and heart disease remains the leading cause of maternal mortality. Despite this, women are less likely than men to receive bystander CPR and are significantly underrepresented in cardiovascular research.

"Throughout my time in the IGA, I've partnered with the AHA to support policies that would establish a statewide stroke plan in Indiana, expand access to emergency response training and promote prevention through education.

“Too many cardiac arrests happen at home, in public places or during everyday activities. In those moments, you are the first responder until help arrives. You do not need a uniform or medical degree to save a life, you need knowledge, courage and the willingness to act," Andrade said.

Christina Cesnik, The Indiana Government Relations Director for the American Heart Association stated, "The 2026 American Heart Month theme, “You Are the First Responder Until Help Arrives,” emphasizes the importance of bystander intervention. CPR performed immediately can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival, yet fewer than half of cardiac arrest victims receive CPR before emergency responders arrive."

Andrade is encouraging Hoosiers to take simple but powerful steps this month, including wearing red on Feb. 5 to show support for women’s heart health, learning Hands-Only CPR, knowing key health numbers such as blood pressure and cholesterol and supporting research and awareness efforts focused on women and heart disease.

“When communities are prepared, lives are saved. By learning CPR and looking out for one another, we can build a healthier, stronger Indiana where no one faces a cardiac emergency alone,” Andrade said.

Hoosiers can learn more about CPR training and heart health resources by visiting heart.org.