Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

So Farmers National Bank in Canfield, as part of a community-wide effort, has donated more than $8,000 together with its customers to the American Heart Association (AHA).

The money will go toward cardiovascular research, advocate for heart-healthier communities and spread awareness of heart attacks and strokes, according to a news release from Farmers National.

In 2021, 310,661 women died from heart disease - or about 1 in every 5 female deaths, according to the CDC.

Additionally, 1 in 17 women aged 20 years and up, about 5.8%, have coronary artery disease, which is the most common form of heart disease in the country.

Heart disease is a catch all term for different forms of coronary related afflictions, this includes heart attacks, arrhythmia and heart failure.

Julianna Begalla, the bank's director of marketing and the one who spearheaded the fundraising efforts, says the money raised through this effort will help save lives in the Valley.

"Every dollar we raised in this campaign will go right back into our community to save our neighbors and help them live a longer, healthier life," she said.