Cardiovascular diseases are the biggest cause of death in the world and India. It is for that reason that September 29 is marked as World Heart Day. The day hopes to promote awareness about the risks of heart disease and how to prevent them. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with cardiovascular issues have faced an even greater risk of developing severe infections due to their co-morbidities.
In an age where modern life is often marked by the relentless hustle and bustle of daily existence, it is easy to forget the significance of the organ that keeps us ticking – the heart. Thankfully, each year on September 29th, we celebrate World Heart Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular health and its vital role in our lives.
The history of World Heart Day is as fascinating as the heart itself, and this article will take you on a journey through its origins, evolution, and global impact.
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The Origins of World Heart Day
The story of World Heart Day begins with the establishment of the World Heart Federation (WHF), a non-governmental organization dedicated to reducing the worldwide burden of heart disease and stroke.
Founded in 1970 by a group of physicians and heart health enthusiasts, the WHF aimed to unite individuals, organizations, and governments in the fight against cardiovascular diseases.
However, it wasn’t until September 29, 2000, that the WHF, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), officially declared World Heart Day. The choice of this date was symbolic, as it falls squarely within the World Health Organization’s World Health Day, emphasizing the interconnectedness of overall health and heart health.
The Evolution of World Heart Day
Since its inception, World Heart Day has evolved into a global event celebrated in over 100 countries.
Each year, the WHF selects a theme to focus on specific aspects of cardiovascular health. These themes have ranged from promoting heart-healthy diets and encouraging physical activity to raising awareness about the importance of heart health in children.
One of the defining features of World Heart Day is its emphasis on prevention. The campaign encourages individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles, reduce risk factors, and make informed choices for their cardiovascular health. These activities are often facilitated through educational programs, workshops, health screenings, and public events.
Significance
Nearly 1.9 crore people die from various heart conditions each year. Of these, 25.66 lakh deaths were in India alone. However, a vast majority of these deaths from heart diseases are completely preventable or can be delayed significantly through timely lifestyle and medical intervention. In its recent report titled ‘Invisible numbers – the true scale of non-communicable diseases’, the global health body stated that 86 percent of the deaths from heart diseases could be prevented.
Global Impact
Over the years, World Heart Day has made significant contributions to the global fight against cardiovascular diseases:
Awareness and Education: World Heart Day has played a pivotal role in increasing public awareness about the importance of heart health. It has brought the conversation about cardiovascular diseases to the forefront, encouraging individuals to take proactive measures.
Policy Advocacy: The campaign has also influenced policymakers, leading to the implementation of heart-healthy policies and strategies at local, national, and international levels.
Health Promotion: World Heart Day has inspired countless individuals to make lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, adopting healthier diets, and incorporating regular exercise into their routines.
Research and Innovation: The attention brought to cardiovascular health on World Heart Day has spurred research and innovation in the field, leading to new treatments and prevention strategies.
Our Take
As we celebrate World Heart Day each year, we not only honor the history of this remarkable global initiative but also emphasize the critical importance of cardiovascular health in our lives.
From its humble beginnings as a day of awareness to its current status as a global event, World Heart Day has made significant strides in reducing the burden of heart disease worldwide.
It serves as a reminder that our hearts are precious, and by taking proactive steps to care for them, we can lead longer healthier lives. So, on September 29th and every day, let us cherish our hearts and prioritize the well-being of this extraordinary organ.
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