Prioritizing Heart Health on World Heart Day

For over two decades, the World Heart Federation has led the World Heart Day movement – informing people around the world about cardiovascular disease. The day serves as a reminder to prioritize heart health.

The Impact of Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease is the world’s number one killer, causing over 20.5 million deaths per year. Of those, an estimated 2.6 million deaths are caused by elevated cholesterol. In addition, the number of adults living with hypertension has doubled in the past 30 years.

Recognizing the risk factors for high cholesterol and high blood pressure could help improve outcomes for patients. These include:

• Family history
• Age
• Unhealthy diet
• Obesity
• Smoking

Disease Management

Managing cardiovascular disease means maintaining healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. In addition to medication, making lifestyle changes can help patients manage their conditions. These can include:

• Eating a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Avoiding alcohol
• Not smoking

Patients can work with their doctor to find the best course of treatment.

By recognizing risk factors, making lifestyle adjustments and working with a doctor to find the best course of treatment, people living with cardiovascular disease can focus on staying heart healthy and reducing their risk.