World Heart Day has been observed on September 29th of every year. The theme for this year 2014 is ‘Creating heart-healthy environments’.
The World Heart Federation organizes events to increase awareness about the disease in more than 100 countries. These events including health checks, organised walks and runs, fitness sessions, public interaction, stage shows, scientific forums, exhibitions, concerts, carnivals and sports tournaments.
The prevalence of heart disease in India has increased four-fold in the last four decades. Predicted to become the leading cause of death and disability by 2020, heart disease currently accounts for 29% of all deaths in the country. The worst part about the disease is that, in India, people are succumbing to heart disease and stroke in the most productive years of their lives, almost a decade earlier compared to the West. Both the government and the business community are waking up to this threat and celebrating the World Heart Day to create awareness.
The World Heart Federation is dedicated in leading the global fight against cardiovascular disease (CVD) – including heart disease and stroke – with a focus on low- and middle-income countries, via a united community of more than 200 member organizations.