VALDOSTA — Dig out those shades of rose, cherry and crimson Friday and help fight the No. 1 killer of American women: heart disease.

“Wear Red for Women Day” is a nationwide movement from the American Heart Association that asks people to don the color red and support the ongoing research and education about women and heart disease.

John J. Fretti, Valdosta mayor, plans to formally dedicate the day in front of City Hall at 10 a.m. Friday.

“While heart disease is normally associated with the male gender, it’s true that congestive heart failure and heart disease is a secret, silent disease and killer of women as well,” Fretti said. “It’s very important that we put our efforts and thoughts into the prevention of cardiovascular disease for women.”

The American Heart Association reports some 500,000 women die each year from cardiovascular disease. A whopping 40 percent of all female deaths in America stem from cardiovascular disease, which includes coronary heart disease and stroke. The American Heart Association reports minority women are more at risk, and 38 percent of all women compared with 25 percent of all men will die within one year after a heart attack.

The good news is that a huge portion of the battle against cardiovascular disease is prevention.

“Think smart, eat well, move more” is the American Heart Association’s slogan for prevention methods.

By “thinking smart,” you can plan ahead to eat healthy meals and pencil in time for exercise. High fiber, low fat foods combined with a regular exercise routine can help you “eat well and move more” daily.

“We want men to recognize heart disease affects their daughters, wives, sisters and mothers,” said Melanie Godwin, regional director for the American Heart Association Southeast Affiliate.

The Heart Association has “red dress” pins available, and a $5 donation goes toward research.

February is the month-long dedication to healthy heart awareness. This is the third year the American Heart Association has held the “Go Red for Women Day.”

Guys, dig into the closet and find a red tie or shirt. Think of your sweetie this Friday ... what could be more red than a rose or two on her desk?

Fretti said it’s important to localize the national movement and create awareness in Valdosta.

For information on how to prevent heart disease and know your risks, visit the American Heart Associations Web site at www.americanheart.org. To purchase a Red Dress pin, call 247-1550.