World Heart Day – 29 September

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World Heart Day is observed on September 29 every year as a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about the importance of heart health and the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD).

This event is organized by the World Heart Federation and was first introduced in 2000.

The primary goal of World Heart Day is to educate the public about the risk factors for heart disease, encourage healthy lifestyles, and promote preventive actions.

According to the latest 2023 statistics from the Department of Statistics Malaysia, ischemic heart disease was the leading cause of death in Malaysia in 2022, accounting for 20,322 deaths, or 16.1% of the 126,268 medically confirmed deaths.

Ischemic heart disease occurs when blood vessels are blocked by more than 70%, preventing adequate blood flow to the heart. (Source: Harian Metro)

World Heart Day aims to reduce these numbers through a more proactive approach to heart health.

Each year, the themes promoted tend to focus on specific health aspects, such as:

1. Healthy eating – Encouraging a balanced diet low in saturated fats and sugars.

2. Physical activity – Promoting more movement and exercise to maintain an ideal weight.

3. Avoiding tobacco – Raising awareness about the dangers of smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke.

On World Heart Day, various activities are organized by health organizations, schools, hospitals, and charities worldwide.

These activities include free health screenings, educational seminars, public awareness campaigns, and walk or run events in support of heart health.

Through these events, people are encouraged to take active steps to care for their hearts, such as getting regular heart check-ups and making positive lifestyle changes.

With slogans like “Use Heart for Every Heart” in 2023, World Heart Day also emphasizes the importance of using empathy and collective awareness to improve heart health, not only for oneself but also for loved ones and the broader community.