World Heart Day 2024: 'Use Heart for Action' to Combat Cardiovascular Disease

On September 29, 2024, the global community will come together to observe World Heart Day, an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular disease (CVD), the world’s leading cause of death. This year’s theme, 'Use Heart for Action', emphasizes the need for proactive measures to prevent and manage CVD.

The Importance of World Heart Day

Cardiovascular diseases claim over 20.5 million lives annually, accounting for approximately 31% of all global mortality. Heart attacks, strokes, and coronary heart disease are among the most common causes of these deaths. World Heart Day aims to educate people about the signs and symptoms of CVD and encourage the adoption of healthy lifestyle habits to prevent these conditions.

The 'Use Heart for Action' Campaign

The 2024 campaign focuses on motivating every country to develop or support a national cardiovascular health plan. This initiative is crucial because current efforts to combat CVD at the national level are often insufficient. By signing a global petition, individuals can advocate for stronger measures to protect heart health and save lives. The campaign highlights that 80% of premature deaths from heart attacks and strokes are preventable with the right strategies.

A cardiovascular health plan serves as a strategic tool for reducing premature deaths from CVD, cutting healthcare costs, and minimizing productivity losses. It is estimated that such plans could save hundreds of billions of dollars annually worldwide.

How to Get Involved

Everyone can play a role in the 'Use Heart for Action' campaign. High-level decision-makers, healthcare professionals, patients, and the general public are all encouraged to participate. Individuals can sign the global petition, create their own posters, join the World Heart Day Challenge, and share social media posts using the hashtags #UseHeart, #WorldHeartDay, and #HeartYes.

Additionally, people can organize or participate in local events such as marathons, walks, public talks, fitness sessions, and health checkups. Landmarks and monuments around the world will also light up red to symbolize the fight against CVD.

Promoting Heart Health

To promote heart health, individuals are advised to adopt healthy lifestyle habits. This includes engaging in physical exercises, quitting smoking and alcohol, and maintaining a healthy diet. Regular checks of heart health, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels are also crucial.

The 'ABCD' rule suggested by experts – Awareness, Balanced diet, Control of risk factors, and Dynamic lifestyle – can be a simple yet effective guide for maintaining heart health.

Global Impact

World Heart Day is observed in over 90 countries, making it a significant global event. It is particularly important for developing countries, where access to heart care awareness and facilities is often limited, leading to a higher incidence of CVD-related deaths.

By participating in World Heart Day, individuals can contribute to a global movement that aims to reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases and promote a healthier world for all.