World Heart Day

World Heart Day History

World Heart Day raises awareness about cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and promotes the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle to prevent and control these conditions. The observance highlights the significance of understanding risk factors, making healthier choices, and seeking timely treatment for CVDs. The event primarily focuses on educating people about the leading causes of heart disease and stroke, and providing helpful resources to encourage healthy living.

The World Heart Federation established World Heart Day in 2000. In the United Kingdom, CVDs account for more than a quarter of all deaths annually. Heart diseases and strokes occur disproportionately among certain socioeconomic and geographical groups. World Heart Day plays a crucial role in raising awareness among the UK population by emphasizing the importance of regular check-ups, physical activities, and a balanced diet.

On World Heart Day, several events and activities are organized throughout the country to increase public awareness and involvement. These include health checks, sports events, public talks, exhibitions, and fundraising campaigns for research and education. World Heart Day is observed on the 29th of September every year, providing an opportunity for people to join the global movement to improve heart health and save lives.

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.
• According to the British Heart Foundation, At the start of 2024, there were 7.6 million people living with heart and circulatory diseases in the UK.
  In 2022, Glasgow City, Scotland, had the highest death count of those under the age of 75 caused by cardiovascular diseases.
• The prevalence of CVD is higher in men than in women. Around 4.2 million men and 3.4 million women in the UK are living with the disease.
• It is estimated that the direct costs of healthcare for CVD amount to around £9 billion per year, with an additional £7 billion in indirect costs, such as lost productivity and informal care.

In the News and Trending in the UK for World Heart Day

World Heart Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Embracing the outdoors and engaging in physical activities like hiking, walking, or cycling can promote a healthy heart.
• Gyms, fitness centers, and community centers often host special activities or classes on World Heart Day, promoting physical activity and healthy living. Look out for events such as yoga or Zumba classes, group workouts, or even marathons.
• Consider volunteering or donating to a heart charity on World Heart Day.
• The British Heart Foundation organizes heart walks across the UK on World Heart Day, encouraging people of all ages and abilities to get active and support heart health.
• Many cooking schools and culinary institutes offer special cooking classes on World Heart Day that focus on preparing heart-healthy meals and snacks.
• HeartFest is an annual festival that takes place in Manchester on World Heart Day. This free event celebrates heart health and wellbeing with interactive workshops, live entertainment, and health screenings.