The Global Cardiovascular Crisis
September 29, 2019 is
World Heart Day

Globally, cardiovascular diseases (which include coronary heart disease and stroke) are the most common non-communicable disease, responsible in 2017 for over 17 million deaths. On September 29, World Heart Day seeks to raise awareness and reduce the number of cardiovascular disease-related deaths. This year’s theme 'My Heart, Your Heart', represents a promise to yourself, the people and colleagues you care about and the individuals around the world to take steps in reducing our risk to CVD.

What is Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) and how do you get it?

  • CVDs are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels; including coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, rheumatic heart disease and other conditions.
  • Four out of five CVD deaths are due to heart attacks and strokes.
  • Behavioral risk factors include unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, use of tobacco and harmful use of alcohol. Underlying determinants including globalization, urbanization and population ageing, poverty, stress and hereditary.

Most CVDs can be prevented through addressing behavioral risk factors, at least 80% of premature deaths can be avoided through controlling the main risk factors – tobacco, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity. How can you help?

  • Create a tobacco free policy - within two years of stopping smoking, the risk of coronary heart disease is substantially reduced.
  • Incentivize or subsidize healthy snacks and meals, including in vending machines.
  • Build an infrastructure conducive to movement. Promote walking and cycle paths.
  • Communicate ways to reduce alcohol consumption.
  • Share knowledge, recommendations and strategies to inspire others to become heart healthy

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