World Heart Day is dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular diseases and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to prevent these life-threatening illnesses. Established by the World Heart Federation, this global campaign aims to educate people about cardiovascular risks, promote heart-healthy habits, and encourage individuals to take charge of their own heart health. This observance emphasizes the significance of making simple lifestyle changes, such as adopting a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco use, and managing stress, all of which can considerably reduce the risks associated with heart diseases.
The idea of creating World Heart Day was first conceived in 1999 as a joint initiative between the World Heart Federation and the World Health Organization. Americans are affected by cardiovascular diseases – it is currently the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming roughly 659,000 lives each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). World Heart Day serves to remind citizens of the importance of being proactive in maintaining their heart health and minimizing the chances of developing heart-related ailments.
To commemorate World Heart Day in the United States, various events and activities are organized by healthcare institutions and non-profit organizations throughout the country. These events include awareness campaigns, health check-up drives, walk-a-thons, and expert talks that promote heart health and general well-being. Individuals are also encouraged to share their own personal stories of heart health triumphs and challenges to inspire change in others. World Heart Day is observed annually on September 29th.
World Heart Day Facts
According to the British Heart Foundation, in 2023, there were 7.6 million people living with heart and circulatory diseases.
In 2023, the total annual healthcare cost of heart and circulatory disease in the UK was £11 billion.
According to the British Heart Foundation, it is estimated that treatment for heart and circulatory diseases cost the UK £74 billion annually. It is estimated to reach £177 billion by 2035.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for about 1 in every 4 deaths.
The total economic cost of CVD in the United States is estimated to be over $320 billion annually, including costs related to health care services, medications, and lost productivity due to illness and death.
Nearly 121.5 million American adults, or about 48% of the adult population, are living with some form of cardiovascular disease, including heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
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