World Heart Day Celebrated

Did you know, that heart beats 115,000 times a day and pumps 2,000 gallons of blood in the veins, while weighing just 1 pound ! Heart, no doubt, is one of the vital organs of the human body, malfunctioning of it may lead to fatality, so it is very essential for everyone to take care of heart health. Every year, over 17 million people die from heart disease, accounting for nearly one-third of all mortality. Heart attack, stroke and coronary heart disease are one of the most common reasons for deaths due to cardiovascular disorders. These heart disorders account for nearly 85% of total deaths due to cardiovascular ailments. World Heart Day is a reminder to everyone around the world to take care of their hearts, and plays a vital role in creating awareness to educate people across the world to understand the importance of heart health.

World Heart Day which is celebrated every year on 29th September was created by World Heart Federation. It is a global campaign through which the federation unites people in the fight against the cardiovascular disease (CVD), and inspires and drives international action to encourage heart-healthy living. World Heart Day was first observed in 1999 after the World Heart Federation collaborated with the World Health Organization. The idea of celebrating the day was conceived by Antoni Baye de Luna, who was the former president of the World Health Federation. Till 2011, the day was observed on the last Sunday of September. However, with world leaders committing to reduce global mortality from non- communicable diseases, the day has come to be observed on 29 September every year. This year 2023, the World Heart Day theme is “Use Heart, Know Heart", a reminder to everyone around the world to take care of their hearts. The theme emphasises the crucial process of getting to know one's own heart first; because one can only love and protect what they are aware of. A common misconception about CVD is that it impacts more people in developed countries who are more reliant on technology and lead sedentary lifestyles. But more than 80% of the deaths occur in middle- income and low-income countries. Incidentally, the main causes of cardiovascular disease are modifiable factors, which include lack of exercise, smoking, and a poor diet. Every year, the World Heart Federation sponsors the international event and declares a theme for the day. Distribution of information and discussions on cardiovascular diseases take place on platforms such as forums, television talk shows, podcasts, posters, and more. Walks, fund-raisers, free health checkups, concerts, sporting events, and other activities are hosted to encourage people to be more active and aware of their health.

How we can keep our heart fit and healthy. Here are some of the tips: 

Keeping the high blood pressure and cholesterol under check. Keep Body Mass Index (BMI) below 25. Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption, have a low sodium diet. Avoiding a sedentary lifestyle, eating healthy     food and avoiding trans fat and junk food. Managing stress and having adequate sleep keeps the heart healthy. Being physically fit is one of the keys to keep cardiovascular disease like coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, peripheral arterial                disease, rheumatic heart disease etc. Aerobic exercises like brisk walking, running, swimming, cycling, and jumping rope improves blood circulation, which results in lowered blood pressure and heart rate. Working out with free weights like hand weights, dumbbells, push-ups, squats and chin-ups are various forms of Resistance Training, which helps reduce obesity and fat, thus lowering lower LDL (bad) and improves HDL (good) cholesterol. Flexibility workouts, such as stretching does not directly contribute to coping with cardiovascular conditions, but it helps to be flexible and free from joint pain, cramping and other muscular issues.

Here are a few suggestions to keep the heart healthy from experts-

To ensure a long and healthy life, it is essential to take initiative-taking steps to care for heart.  Heart is a muscular organ that works continuously, beating approximately 100,000 times a day. Its primary function is to pump blood through a complex network of arteries and veins, delivering oxygen and nutrients to every cell in your body. However, numerous factors can impact the health of heart, leading to serious conditions such as heart attack, high blood pressure, and stroke. Key Factors for Heart Health: 1. Diet 2. Exercise 3. Weight Management 4. Blood Pressure Control 5. Cholesterol Levels 6. Stress Reduction 7. Smoking Cessation 8. Limit Alcohol

Prevention and Early Detection:

Prevention and early detection are vital in maintaining heart health. By adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, you can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and improve your overall well-being.

Dr. Ritesh Sanguri

Senior Consultant and Unit Head Cardiology Venkateshwar Hospital

Sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, and mounting stress levels have collectively contributed to this troubling trend, affecting people of all ages. In this disconcerting landscape, Venkateshwar Hospital stands as a beacon of hope. Renowned for its cutting-edge cardiology department, the hospital has taken the lead in addressing this cardiac crisis, aligning perfectly with the message of World Heart Day - "Use Your Heart to Beat Cardiovascular Disease." Venkateshwar Hospital is home to a dedicated team of experts who employ state-of-the-art treatments and the latest medical innovations to provide comprehensive care to cardiac patients. From advanced diagnostic tools to minimally invasive procedures, their unwavering commitment to cardiac health is palpable. As we commemorate World Heart Day 2023, it's reassuring to know that Venkateshwar Hospital remains steadfast in its mission to combat the escalating health challenge of cardiac issues, offering solace and world-class care to those in need. Your heart's well-being is, and always will be, their utmost priority.

Gunjan Sinha

CEO, Venkateshwar Hospital

Cardiovascular health refers to the health of the heart and blood vessels. When people think of the body's circulatory system, the first thing that usually comes to mind is the heart. But the heart couldn't do its job without blood vessels: a vast system of elastic tubes made of muscle; so vast that if they were laid out in a line, they would measure more than 60,000 miles in length. Interestingly, a human heart beats about 100,000 times per day and creates enough energy to drive a truck about 20 miles. In a lifetime, that is equivalent to driving to the moon and back. To ensure this splendid organ is always in the pink one must remain alert to the following symptoms and contact the doctor right away if you feel any chest pain, pressure, or discomfort. However, chest pain is a less common sign of heart disease as it progresses, so be aware of other symptoms. On this World Cardiac Day let us pledge to be informed and be heart healthy. Wishing everyone a good life and a healthy heart.

R K Jain