White House conference spotlights urgent need to close gender gap in scientific research

American Heart Association CEO emphasizes investments in cardiovascular disease

WASHINGTON, D.C., December 11, 2024 - The President and First Lady today hosted the inaugural White House Conference on Women's Health Research, as part of an initiative to prioritize research on women's health and galvanize new research on a wide range of topics.

Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, which is celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service as the world's leading voluntary organization focused on heart and brain health, participated in a panel discussion, "Moving Women's Health Forward," moderated by Liz Plosser, Editor-in-Chief of Women's Health Magazine. Brown shared her personal passion for this issue and how the American Heart Association is working to close the gap in health care and access for women.

"Today, heart disease and stroke are leading causes of death among women," Brown said. "The more we know about women and their overall health, the better we can prevent and treat cardiovascular disease. I was so pleased to join the President, First Lady and so many other leaders and advocates to bring attention to close the gender gap in women's health."

Through the Go Red for Women movement and other initiatives, the American Heart Association has worked to advance equitable research, policy and care. In June 2024, the Association commissioned a report in collaboration with the McKinsey Health Institute on the state of U.S. Women's Heart Health. The report found that closing the cardiovascular-disease gap between men and women could lead to an increase of at least 1.6 million years of quality life and boost the U.S. economy by $28 billion annually by 2040. It also built upon an earlier Deloitte study, which showed that women's health represented just 2% of the $41.2 billion in U.S. venture funding that went to health innovators.

The American Heart Association has funded more than $5.9 billion in cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and brain health research since 1949, making it the single largest non-government supporter of heart and brain health research in the U.S. New knowledge resulting from this funding benefits millions of lives in every corner of the U.S. and around the world. The Association currently supports about 1,800 active research awards that total nearly $500 million. It also launched Research Goes Red, a women's health registry in 2019, to actively engage tens of thousands of women and researchers. To expand upon these investments and close gaps in research, care and access, the Association launched a $75 million Go Red for Women Venture Fund to support companies that are translating evidence-based science into products and services designed to drive better health outcomes for women.

"We are committed to working with lawmakers, advocates, researchers and business leaders on this important work to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere," Brown said. "We are grateful to President Biden and First Lady Biden for their leadership in championing women's health research and enhancing the well-being of women across the nation."

###

About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public's health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries:
Arielle Beer: 202-785-7902; [email protected]
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org