On September 29, the world marks the biggest campaign intervention against cardiovascular disease (CVD), the World Heart Day (WHD). The World Heart Federation started celebrating WHD since 2000 on the last Sunday in September but as of 2011 changed to September 29. 17.3 million people die each year from CVD and it’s estimated that by 2030, 23 million deaths will be as a direct result of a CVD. This year’s theme, “Heart Choices, Not Hard Choices” aims to make people aware of access to a heart-healthy environment in terms of where they live, learn, work, and play.
CVD such as heart attacks, stroke, and blood vessels related diseases are minimized through lifestyle changes such diet change, physical activity, blood pressure, and no tobacco use. This isn’t a guarantee that you won’t get a CVD but it does reduce the chances of developing one. To take part check out the World heart Day website (linked above) to send photos, videos, and more as an individual, group, or organization to help raise awareness.
There’s a push for kids and the youth to take part as the World Heart Federation has come up with four face sheets for their “Kids on the Move” project to help partners and members raise people’s awareness of the growing concerns such as obesity, dietary changes, physical activities, and more.
Photo: *sax (flickr)
