World Heart Day 2020: September 29

World Heart Day is observed annually on September 29 to raise awareness about Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) including heart disease & stroke and highlights their prevention and global impact. The day also aims to educate people that at least 80% of premature deaths due to heart disease and stroke can be avoided by controlling risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity.

Background

i.The World Health Day was established in 1999 by the World Heart Federation (WHF) in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO).

ii.The idea of the annual event was conceived by Antoni Bayés de Luna, the president of WHF from 1997-2011.

iii.The 1st World Health Day was celebrated in 2000.

Key Info

i.The world leaders in May 2012 committed to reduce global mortality from Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) by 25% by 2025. 

ii.CVD including heart disease and stroke is the world’s leading cause of death claiming 17.9 million lives every year and results in 31% of all global deaths.

World Heart Day

World Heart Day is a global campaign in which individuals, families, communities, and governments around the world participate in activities to take responsibility for their heart health and that of others.

CVD & COVID-19 

CVD patients are more susceptible to severe COVID-19.

1.9 Million People Die from Tobacco-Induced Heart Disease Every Year: New Brief

i.As per the new brief released on September 29,2020 by WHO, WHF and the University of Newcastle Australia, 1.9 million people die from tobacco-induced heart disease annually. This equates to one in five of all deaths from heart disease.

ii.Smokers are likely to experience an acute cardiovascular event at a younger age than non-smokers.

iii.If tobacco users quit, their risk of heart disease will be decreased by 50% after one year of not smoking.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD)

It is a general term for conditions which affect the heart or blood vessels. It is usually associated with a build-up of fatty deposits inside the arteries (atherosclerosis) and an increased risk of blood clots.

Causes 

Smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity among others.

Treatment

With proper treatment, the symptoms of CVD can be reduced and the heart’s function can be improved.

Preventive Measures

Stop the habit of smoking, have a balanced diet, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, reduce alcohol consumption.

About World Heart Federation (WHF)
HeadQuarters– Geneva, Switzerland
President of the Board– Prof Karen Sliwa