Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among women in the United States, and new projections from the American Heart Association indicate that nearly six in ten U.S. women will have some form of the disease by 2050. In response, women's college basketball coaches from across the country are joining forces through the 2026 American Heart Association Go Red for Women Hearts on the Court Collective to raise awareness, educate women about their risks, and encourage them to seek care and support.
Led by Louisiana State University women's basketball Hall of Fame and NCAA championship head coach Kim Mulkey, the Collective brings together coaches to elevate the profile of women's cardiovascular health. Throughout the 2026-27 season, the coaches will use their platforms to share lifesaving health information with fans, student-athletes, families, and communities. The initiative is detailed in a release link from the Association.
"Too many women still face gaps in awareness, diagnosis, treatment and lifesaving care for cardiovascular disease," said Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association. "By bringing trusted coaches and mentors into this effort, the American Heart Association Go Red for Women Hearts on the Court Collective can help deliver health and hope to more women everywhere." The coaches will promote Life’s Essential 8 for Women, a framework that includes managing key health numbers such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar; eating a healthy diet; moving more; avoiding tobacco; getting healthy sleep; and maintaining a healthy weight.
The Collective will also highlight how cardiovascular health is affected by risk factors across life stages, including adolescence, midlife, pregnancy and postpartum, perimenopause, and menopause. "Coaches understand the value of preparation, teamwork and taking action before the pressure is on," Mulkey said. "By coming together again, this Collective can help women know their risks, make heart-healthy choices and speak up for the care they need."
The 2026-27 Collective includes coaches from prominent programs such as the University of Tennessee, UCLA, University of Notre Dame, University of Iowa, University of Texas, and many others. According to the American Heart Association, more than 80% of heart attacks and strokes are preventable, making the coaches' outreach effort critical for public health. The initiative aims to reach women in every age and stage of life with information that can save lives.
Women can learn their risks and access health resources at GoRedforWomen.org. The Association also provides detailed information on cardiovascular disease and stroke prevention at stroke.org. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of awareness and education in the fight against heart disease, which continues to claim the lives of too many women. The original announcement was distributed via www.newmediawire.com.
