29 September is World Heart Day, a global, multi-lingual celebration. It’s a reminder to everyone around the world to take care of their hearts. This year’s campaign USE ❤ KNOW ❤, from the World Heart Federation, focuses on the essential steps of knowing our hearts first.
BECAUSE WE LOVE AND PROTECT ONLY WHAT WE KNOW
THE GOAL IS TO STOP THE # 1 KILLER IN THE WORLD
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a class of diseases that affect the heart or blood vessels (veins and arteries). It is the number one cause of death globally. More than 20 million lives are lost every year because of CVD and the majority of these deaths happen in low- and middle-income countries. 80% of premature CVD deaths are preventable. World Heart Day is an opportunity to spread awareness and highlight the actions that individuals can take to prevent and manage CVD.
In a world where knowledge about heart health is limited and policies are insufficient or lacking, this year’s campaign aims to shatter barriers and empower individuals to take control of their well-being. AS OUR KNOWLEDGE EXPANDS, OUR ABILITY TO PROVIDE SUPERIOR CARE ALSO INCREASES.
LIMITING RISK FACTORS AND PRACTICING HEART-HEALTHY BEHAVIOUR
According to the World Health Organization, most cardiovascular diseases can be prevented by addressing behavioral risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diet and obesity, physical inactivity, and harmful use of alcohol.
Cessation of tobacco use, reduction of salt in the diet, eating more fruit and vegetables, regular physical activity, and avoiding harmful use of alcohol have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
In addition, knowing your numbers – blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and Body Mass Index (BMI) can help you take action to better manage your health. Drug treatment of hypertension, diabetes, and high blood lipids is necessary to reduce cardiovascular risk and prevent heart attacks and strokes among people with these conditions.
To learn more about Cardiovascular diseases you can visit the World Health Organization Cardiovascular Diseases fact sheets
To learn how you can help celebrate and get involved in World Heart Day, you can visit World Heart Federation World Heart Day 2023
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