Heart disease, including stroke, is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. February is American Heart Month and Mayo Clinic Health System wants to help men and women of all ages learn more about heart disease and stroke and what individuals can do to live heart-healthy lives, according to a press release.

In recognition of American Heart Month, Mayo Clinic Health System is partnering with the Chamber of Commerce in Albert Lea and Austin to provide heart health information to participating chamber members. These heart healthy tips will also be available on Mayo Clinic Health System’s web site at mayoclinichealthsystem.org.

Additionally, to demonstrate a commitment to promoting heart health, Mayo and the Albert Lea and Austin Chamber of Commerce in invite businesses across the region to participate in Go Red for Women on Friday. Employees may show their awareness about heart health by wearing red to work. Participating businesses and individuals can submit photos of dressed in red to mchssocialmedia@mayo.edu.

“Our goal is simple,” said Sandra Birchem, D.O. at Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea. “Women age 55 or older, men age 45 and older or a person with a family history of early heart disease are at a higher risk for heart disease. By educating and encouraging people to adopt heart-healthy behaviors, we know that people can reduce their risks. I plan to wear red on Feb. 6 and I’m looking forward to seeing the photos of individuals and businesses who do the same.”