Paint the town red: Feb. 1 is National Wear Red Day for women's heart health awareness

CINCINNATI - Grab your favorite red shirt, sport those crimson-colored pants or don a ruby dress, because Feb. 1 is National Wear Red Day  in the Tri-State and nationwide.

The day raises awareness about women suffering from cardiovascular disease — an ailment that claims the lives of nearly 500,000 American women each year. Wear Red Day also kicks off American Heart month, an initiative that encourages everyone to talk about heart health, risks and solutions.

This year marks 10 years since the American Heart Association partnered with the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute to create National Wear Red Day. Since its beginning, the American Heart Association reports, there have been positive results. There are 21 percent fewer women dying from heart disease and 23 percent more women are aware that it’s their leading health threat, according to the association.

To celebrate the 10-year anniversary, the American Heart Association is requesting photos of people showing off their red attire. In the “ America Goes Red Challenge ,” people can submit their photos wearing red clothing at work, school, around the neighborhood or with their family.

To submit your photos and view others around the country, go to http://wearredday.goredforwomen.org/ .

Not so fast, though! Remember to send photos of red-wearing Tri-Staters to webteam@wcpo.com . Let us know where you're showcasing your red ensemble and why heart health is important to you.