The human heart provides the power to your life, pumping 90 000 times every day. Ironically it can also be one of your greatest weaknesses. Almost 1 in every 5 deaths in South Africa are caused by heart diseases. Only HIV and Aids claim more lives nationally.

The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) plays a leading role in the fight against preventable heart disease and stroke, with the aim of seeing fewer people in South Africa suffer premature deaths and disabilities. The HSFSA, established in 1980 is a non-governmental, non-profit organization that relies on external funding to sustain the work it carries out.

80% of heart diseases that happen before the age of 65 years can be prevented by eating well, keeping active, and not smoking. In reality, the lifestyles of most people living in South Africa are becoming unhealthier. 2 in 5 South Africans have high blood pressure, 2 in 3 women are overweight, a third of men smoke, nearly half of the population is unfit, and most eat too much salt and not enough fruit and vegetables. Start living a health lifestyle to prevent developing heart disease or having a stroke and to live a long and active life.

In the podcast below Yolanda Maartens and Dana dissect the statistics around heart disease in South Africa and what lifestyle changes we can make to ensure that we take care of our hearts. 

Listen here:

DISCLAIMER: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.