Heart disease claims over 17.3 million lives worldwide each year. Classed as a non-communicable (NCD) or a lifestyle disease, it is one of the world’s leading causes of death. The majority of these deaths are preventable and are caused by smoking, lack of exercise and poor diet, which can increase your chances of heart disease by nearly 2-3 times.
The World Heart Federation (WHF) is a leading international advocacy organisation that created the World Heat Day in 2000, to raise awareness of the fact that 80% of deaths from heart disease can be prevented through simple lifestyle adjustments. This year’s theme will focus on cardiovascular diseases in women and children, drawing attention to the benefits of the life-course approaches to prevention.
From organised sports events in Zambia and exhibitions in Nigeria to special screenings in Indonesia, join the activities in your country and help to raise awareness of heart disease throughout the month of September 2013.