Women’s heart health in national spotlight for Wear Red Canada Day: The initiatives driving awareness and action

February 6, 2025

OTTAWA, February 6, 2025 — On February 13, Canadians will don red clothing in observation of Wear Red Canada Day, a national initiative raising much needed awareness about women's cardiovascular health and encouraging action to address sex- and gender-based disparities in care.

  • Wear Red Canada Day: February 13, 2025
  • National Wear Red Canada livestream webinar: February 13, 2025, at 12 p.m. ET
  • Wear Red Canada Movement Challenge: February 13–28, 2025

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women in Canada, yet it continues to be under-researched, under-diagnosed, and under-treated, and many women are unaware of the risks. This lack of awareness – both among healthcare providers and the public – has resulted in significant disparities in care and outcomes.

The Canadian Women’s Heart Health Alliance, the national network of experts, advocates, and women with lived experience behind Wear Red Canada Day, is inviting Canadian media to spotlight women’s heart health initiatives taking place on February 13 and throughout February.

This isn’t just about raising awareness—it’s about saving lives.

Wear Red Canada Day

On February 13, Canadians are urged to wear red to raise awareness about women’s heart health and spark important conversations on social media using the hashtag #HerHeartMatters.

For complete campaign details, including information about Wear Red Canada events organized across Canada, visit wearredcanada.ca.

National Wear Red Canada livestream webinar

Women and Chest Pain: Overcoming Barriers to Timely and Fair Emergency Care”

On February 13, a live webinar will discuss how women experience chest pain differently, how delays in care affect outcomes, and strategies for improving early diagnosis. A live Q&A session will follow, allowing direct interaction with expert panelists. Registration is required.

Wear Red Canada Movement Challenge

From February 13–28, Canadians can join the Wear Red Canada Movement Challenge by getting active—walking, running, or dancing—to raise awareness for women’s heart health. Funds raised support life-saving programs that educate and advocate for women’s heart health in Canada.

Media opportunities 

To request an interview with a Wear Red Canada spokesperson, or an expert in women’s heart health from the Canadian Women’s Heart Health Centre at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, please contact the liaison below.

Media contact

Leigh B. Morris
Communications Officer
University of Ottawa Heart Institute
613-316-6409 (cell)
lmorris@ottawaheart.ca