HARRISBURG, January 29, 2007 -- The Senate today unanimously passed a resolution sponsored by state Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione marking February 2 as “Wear Red for Women Day” in Pennsylvania.

     The designation is part of American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” campaign.

"Each year, we designate the Month of February as 'American Heart Month' and encourage everyone to wear red to increase awareness of the devastating effects cardiovascular disease can have on women and their families," Tartaglione said.

Tartaglione is part of a bipartisan group of lawmakers focused on the issue of women's health.

     "By examining the risks of heart disease in women and by discussing ways in which we can limit those risks, we hope to inspire women to take charge of their heart health, allowing them to live longer and healthier lives," Tartaglione said.

Health officials said women are aware of their healthcare options, but often let their families take priority over their own health.  Studies have shown that while 90 percent of women feel they have power over their health, only 27 percent call it a top priority.

     Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among women, despite a large media focus on other health issues.

     Organizers encourage both men and women - and boys and girls - to wear their “favorite red clothes or accessory-a red blouse, a red dress pin, a fabulous red handbag -put on red lipstick, or sport a red tie and red socks. Go red in your own fashion to show your support for women and the fight against heart disease.”

     For more information on heart health and the wear red tradition, visit Tartaglione’s Web site, www.pasenate.com/tartaglione.