World Heart Day

World Heart Day History

World Heart Day aims to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases, the leading cause of death worldwide. The primary objective of this important annual event is to encourage people to adopt a healthy lifestyle, improve their heart health, and promote preventive measures against heart-related ailments. Emphasizing the importance of timely interventions, World Heart Day focuses on creating healthy environments for individuals and communities, thus contributing to the reduction of cardiovascular risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diets, and physical inactivity.

The World Heart Federation, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), initiated World Heart Day in 2000 to address the surge in heart diseases and stroke cases globally. The situation in India is particularly alarming, as it is estimated that 17.8 million people in the country died from cardiovascular diseases in 2017, accounting for over 30% of all deaths. Lifestyle factors such as sedentary habits, unhealthy food choices, and high-stress levels, coupled with a genetic predisposition for heart diseases among Indians, underline the vital need for increased awareness and timely preventive measures.

Various public and private organizations in India actively participate in observing World Heart Day. A range of activities, including health check-up camps, marathons, cycling campaigns, and seminars, are organized to raise awareness and promote heart-healthy living. Central to these events is the emphasis on physical activity, balanced diets, regular health screenings, and stress management techniques as crucial aspects of maintaining overall well-being. World Heart Day is observed annually on the 29th of September.

World Heart Day Facts

• According to the British Heart Foundation, in 2023, there were 7.6 million people living with heart and circulatory diseases.
• In 2023, the total annual healthcare cost of heart and circulatory disease in the UK was £11 billion.
  
  According to the British Heart Foundation, it is estimated that treatment for heart and circulatory diseases cost the UK £74 billion annually. It is estimated to reach £177 billion by 2035.
• The economic burden of CVD in India is significant, with an estimated cost of $2.17 trillion between 2012 and 2030.
• India has one of the highest rates of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) globally, caused by untreated streptococcal infections. RHD affects approximately 1.17 per 1000 children in India and remains a major public health issue.

In the News and Trending in India for World Heart Day

World Heart Day Top Things to Do

• Embracing the outdoors and engaging in physical activities like hiking, walking, or cycling can promote a healthy heart.
• Gyms, fitness centers, and community centers often host special activities or classes on World Heart Day, promoting physical activity and healthy living. Look out for events such as yoga or Zumba classes, group workouts, or even marathons.
• Consider volunteering or donating to a heart charity on World Heart Day.
• Participating in yoga and meditation sessions can be beneficial for overall heart health.
• Many cities organize marathons, walkathons, or cyclothons on World Heart Day to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about heart diseases.