GENEVA. – As the world celebrates World Heart Day today, experts are aiming to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases, including their prevention, control, and treatment.

“Don't Miss a Beat” is the slogan of the current global campaign, which marks 25 years since the World Heart Federation, with the support of the World Health Organization (WHO), designated September 29th for this observance.

According to health authorities, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. A majority of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries.

A Growing Global Health Burden

Factors such as an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, stress, tobacco use, and the harmful consumption of alcohol contribute to these figures continuing to rise.

Myocardial infarctions (heart attacks) and strokes claim more than 17 million lives annually, and it is estimated that this number will rise to 23 million by 2030. One in five people will die prematurely from cardiovascular diseases, which claim more lives than cancer and chronic respiratory diseases combined.

Prevention is Key

However, up to 80 percent of heart diseases and strokes are preventable. Key strategies include access to affordable healthcare, early detection screenings, and more opportunities for people to make healthy choices regarding nutrition and physical activity.

A significant proportion of these deaths could be avoided through a healthy diet that reduces salt intake, regular physical exercise, and avoiding tobacco consumption. Public health initiatives continue to emphasize that proactive lifestyle changes are crucial in combating this global epidemic.