Sacramento-based attorney and community advocate Anh Phoong has been named the 2026 National Woman of Impact winner by the American Heart Association (AHA) for her efforts to raise awareness about women's heart health. The award, part of the AHA's Go Red for Women campaign, recognizes individuals who lead grassroots initiatives to improve cardiovascular health in their communities.
Phoong became a nominee for the campaign after her mother survived a heart attack. "For so many women, that's not the outcome," Phoong said. "This campaign was my way of honoring her - and reminding women that we have to take care of ourselves if we want to keep showing up for everyone else."
During the nine-week campaign, Phoong led a team of more than 100 people from across Sacramento to raise funds, educate others about cardiovascular risks, and inspire healthier habits. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women, according to the AHA, yet fewer than half of women recognize it as their greatest health threat. Women also remain underrepresented in research and underserved in care.
"This is what women supporting women really looks like," Phoong said. "When we show up for each other, our impact is bigger." Her efforts included encouraging simple actions like daily movement, healthier eating, and stress management. "It doesn't have to be complicated," she added. "Go for a walk. Make better choices. Small habits add up."
The Woman of Impact campaign launched annually on National Wear Red Day, the first Friday in February, and calls on changemakers to lead efforts that improve heart health. Nominees across the country reached thousands of people, supporting critical funding for research, education, and advocacy aimed at addressing the unique risks women face with CVD.
Lee A. Shapiro, J.D., volunteer chair of the AHA and managing partner at 7wireVentures, said, "The Woman of Impact campaign brings the mission of Go Red for Women to life in communities across the country. Leaders like Phoong drive change by taking actions that help more women live longer, healthier lives."
As the 2026 National Woman of Impact winner, Phoong joins a growing network of advocates working to close gaps in awareness, research, and care for women. For more information about the campaign and the Go Red for Women movement, visit GoRedforWomen.org.
