Friday 29th September is World Heart Day which was created by the World Heart Federation to bring attention to heart health and cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death claiming over 17 million lives each year globally. In partnership with organisations such as the World Health Organisation, the World Heart Federation aims to educate people on heart health and the risk factors for cardiovascular disease. By controlling the main risk factors for heart disease and stroke, smoking, diet, and physical activity, at least 80% of deaths can be avoided.
World Heart Day educates people about the importance of heart health while offering activities to get people involved in the fight against cardiovascular disease. The World Heart Federation organises awareness events in over 100 countries and many governments and non-profits support the cause by organising their own activities. Heart health promotion events that may be taking place in your local community include health checks, fitness events, education sessions, and exhibitions.
To shed light on the importance of World Heart Day, we have created the following tips to help keep your heart healthy.
Check your blood glucose levels
Cardiovascular disease is prevalent in people with diabetes and accounts for 60% of all deaths. Late detection and treatment of diabetes can put you at increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Checking your blood glucose levels can help detect diabetes and ensure you get treatment before it puts your heart at risk.
Check your blood pressure
High blood pressure is the number one risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It can be especially dangerous because it often has no warning signs or symptoms. It is common for people to be unaware that they have high blood pressure and so it goes untreated.
Get a health check
You can ask your doctor to measure health indicators like cholesterol, weight, body mass index, blood pressure, and blood glucose. This can help you develop a full picture of your overall health. Your doctor can identify areas of concern and help you create a plan to improve your heart health and reduce your risk factors.
Stay Active
Physical activity should be a part of your daily routine. Regular exercise routines or taking breaks throughout the day to go for a walk can dramatically improve your heart health and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking is extremely detrimental to your health. It can damage arteries and lead to atherosclerosis and it also reduces oxygen levels in the blood. Not only does it cause cardiovascular disease in those who smoke, but second-hand smoke also affects the health of others around them.
Limit salt intake
People who consume an excessive amount of salt generally tend to have higher blood pressure which can increase the risk of having heart disease. The current salt recommendation for adults is no more than 6 grams a day. Processed meat products and fast foods tend to have high salt levels. By reducing these kind of foods in your diet, you can lower your blood pressure and help keep your heart healthy.
One of the most important things you can do for heart health is to educate yourself. Even a small amount of education can help save lives. The majority of cardiac emergencies occur at home and understanding the signs and symptoms of a heart attack could help save your loved one. Learn more and get involved in heart health by participating in World Heart Day in your community.
Here at Zevo Health, we provide many wellbeing trainings that are designed to improve heart health and enhance every attendee’s wellbeing so they can live a happier and healthier life.
