World Heart Day is being observed on September 29 with a focus on preventing cardiovascular diseases and encouraging people to recognise warning signs and seek medical attention without delay.
Cardiovascular diseases remain one of the major causes of death globally. Health experts and public health authorities are using the occasion to highlight the importance of controlling risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, tobacco use, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity.
Union Health and Family Welfare Minister J.P. Nadda, in a message on World Heart Day, stressed the importance of prevention, screening and timely treatment. He also reiterated the government’s focus on strengthening cardiovascular healthcare through national health programmes.
Doctors say many heart-related risk factors can be identified and managed through regular health checks and changes in daily habits. Monitoring blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol can help identify risks at an early stage.
Physical activity, a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco and maintaining a healthy weight are among the measures commonly recommended for reducing cardiovascular risk. People with existing conditions may also require regular medical follow-up and prescribed treatment.
Another focus of World Heart Day is awareness of warning symptoms. Chest discomfort, breathlessness, unusual sweating, dizziness and pain spreading to the arm, shoulder, back or jaw can require urgent medical evaluation, particularly when symptoms appear suddenly.
Healthcare professionals are also drawing attention to heart health among younger adults. Cardiovascular risk is not limited to older people, particularly when lifestyle-related risk factors are present.
World Heart Day provides an opportunity to strengthen public awareness while encouraging individuals to make prevention and regular health monitoring part of routine healthcare.
The theme this year continues the global emphasis on reducing preventable cardiovascular disease and improving access to timely care.
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