Leon Barretto

29 September is observed as World Heart Day. World Heart Day was initiated by the World Heart Federation to spread awareness about cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including heart disease and stroke. It aims to motivate people that by controlling risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity. Heart diseases or Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are one of the biggest cause of death and disability in the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 17.9 million people die of CVDs every year and the figure is expected to rise by 23 million by 2030. At least 80 percent of premature deaths from heart disease and stroke could be avoided. Every year on World Health Day, there are collaborations from non-profit organizations around the world. Public dialogue, screening, walking, run and other events are organized to increase awareness of heart-related diseases and leading people in healthy living.

Cardiovascular disease is a group of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels which supply blood to lungs, brain, kidneys and other parts of the body. When your heart’s work gets compromised, then it is known as cardiovascular disease.

Causes

• High blood pressure
• Smoking / Excessive Alcohol 
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Inactivity -If you don't exercise regularly, it's more likely that you'll have high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and be overweight. All of these are risk factors for CVD.
• Being overweight or obese
• Family history of CVD

Prevention

Certain types of heart disease, such as heart defects, can't be prevented. However, the same lifestyle changes that can improve your heart disease can help you prevent it, including:

• Don't smoke.
• Control other health conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
• Exercise.
• Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Reduce and manage stress.
• Practice good hygiene.