The World Heart Federation (WHF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) decided on September 29 as the date for World Heart Day celebrations when the event was first held in 1999 and formally commemorated in 2000.

In order to battle the world’s top cause of death, the day was created to increase awareness of cardiovascular diseases and encourage heart-healthy lifestyles. In order to establish a recurring yearly campaign, the date was moved from the last Sunday of September to September 29 starting in 2011.

With the theme “Don’t Miss a Beat,” the World Heart Federation and World Health Organization commemorate the 25th World Heart Day today, highlighting the fact that 80% of heart disease and stroke cases can be avoided by adopting healthier lifestyle choices including exercising, eating a balanced diet, and giving up smoking.

While the Philippines reports 143,486 CVD deaths in 2023, authorities in India, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, encourage routine checkups in the face of a 30% increase in heart attacks among those under 40.

The goal of global programs is to increase access to cardiac care for 500 million additional individuals by 2030 through screenings, workshops, and awareness campaigns.

Early deaths from CVD are causing loved ones all across the world to miss out on time they should still spend together. For this reason, on September 29, we shall proclaim to the world: Don’t Miss a Beat.

In the WHO South-East Asia Region, eight individuals pass away from cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) every minute. According to Dr. Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge, WHO South-East Asia, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a major cause of death in the region, with half of these deaths occurring before the age of 70.

Hypertension, diabetes, alcohol and tobacco use, poor diets heavy in fat and salt, and sedentary lifestyles are major risk factors for CVDs.

She also pointed out shortcomings that impede progress, including insufficient financial and regulatory measures, lax policy enforcement, and inadequate oversight of the prohibitions on unhealthy commodities’ marketing, packaging, and advertising.

Amit Shah, the Home Minister, said on X, “On #WorldHeartDay may we all pledge to keep our hearts healthy with regular exercise and a balanced diet to gift ourselves and our loved ones happier lives” .

“On #WorldHeartDay, let’s unite to promote a heart-healthy community by embracing mindful lifestyle choices that protect our hearts today and for years to come,” the Ministry of Health stated on X.

Deputy Chief Minister- Karnataka, DK Shivakumar said on X, “#WorldHeartDay reminds us to care for this most vital part of our lives and make health a priority for ourselves and our society. Small steps like regular exercise, balanced food, and stress-free living can go a long way in keeping our hearts healthy. Let us value every heartbeat and protect it with conscious choices.”

On World Heart Day, there is a chance to spark global dialogue and involvement by utilizing compelling narratives to increase awareness of heart health issues. Use a collection of Don’t Miss a Beat resources to personalize World Heart Day.