Happy World Heart Day! Industry leaders use holiday to emphasize the importance of cardiovascular health
Cardiovascular organizations all over the world will be celebrating World Heart Day on Tuesday, Sept. 29.
The World Heart Federation (WHF) first launched the holiday in 2000 to highlight the continued importance of heart health and increase awareness about cardiovascular disease (CVD) and stroke. On the holiday’s 20th anniversary, the WHF is taking a closer look at the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and what it means for heart patients.
“In these trying times, it is paramount that we pay special attention to those who are at greater risk of complications from COVID-19 and better understand how the virus is affecting the hearts of otherwise healthy people,” Karen Sliwa, WHF president, said in a statement. “COVID-19 has created a perfect storm, in which those people with CVD fare poorly, and those at risk don't seek the treatment that they need to keep their hearts healthy. The heart and the entire vascular system are in danger and we need to act now.”
The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is using the day to highlight the work of its more than 54,000 members on social media and share recent data related to COVID-19, clinician health and other key areas of interest for the industry. The group is asking that members follow along with the hashtag #UseHeart online, and more information is available here.
The American Heart Association is also celebrating the big day, noting that people can “protect the hearts that matter to you” by learning CPR, getting a flu shot and donating to applicable organizations.
Michael has more than 18 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.