Advancing Women’s Heart Health: Dr. Jessica L. Israel Named Go Red Chair

Nearly half of women over age 20 live with some form of cardiovascular disease (CVD) — the leading cause of death among women. Driven by her dedication to improving women’s heart health in New Jersey, Dr. Jessica L. Israel, chief medical officer and executive vice president at Complete Care, has been named the 2025–2026 volunteer chair for the Garden State Go Red for Women movement.

The Go Red for Women initiative, created by the American Heart Association more than 20 years ago, aims to raise awareness and inspire action to improve women’s heart health around the world.

Cardiovascular disease remains the top health threat for women, claiming more lives than all forms of cancer combined. According to the American Heart Association, a woman’s risk changes over time and can increase during certain stages of life such as pregnancy or menopause. The encouraging news is that most heart disease can be prevented with education and healthy lifestyle choices. Through the Go Red for Women campaign, women are encouraged to take control of their health and to support one another in doing the same.

Earlier this year, Dr. Israel had her own experience with heart disease when she suffered a cardiovascular event. That incident revealed she had untreated high blood pressure and high cholesterol — a realization that motivated her to share her story and encourage others to take their health seriously.

“As women, we often put others first. I have devoted my life to caring for literally everyone—my family, friends, colleagues, patients and even strangers—except for myself,” said Israel. “Through Go Red for Women, the American Heart Association encourages us to prioritize our own heart health. I’m honored to lead this effort to raise awareness, provide education and inspire action to help women of all ages take control of their health and support each other in this vital mission.”

Go Red for Women now reaches communities across the U.S. and in more than 50 countries worldwide. The Garden State Go Red for Women Experience will take place in June 2026, celebrating the year’s progress and honoring local achievements.

“We are incredibly grateful for Dr. Israel and her unwavering passion and dedication to the Go Red for Women movement,” said Daniel Stermer, executive director of the American Heart Association in New Jersey. “She leads by example through her commitment to raising awareness and advocating for women’s heart health, and because of this she has made a significant impact on our community.”