Heart Awareness Month, observed throughout September, is an opportunity to learn more about cardiovascular disease, recognise warning signs and take steps towards a healthier heart.

The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) has been fighting preventable heart disease and stroke since 1980. The non-profit organisation works to educate and empower South Africans, promote prevention and encourage healthier lifestyle choices.

Why heart health matters

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death and disability worldwide, claiming approximately 17.9 million lives every year.

In South Africa, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease is responsible for almost one in six deaths, with approximately 225 South Africans dying from heart disease and stroke every day.

Unhealthy diets, physical inactivity and tobacco use are among the factors contributing to the growing burden of cardiovascular disease. However, many heart conditions can be prevented through healthier choices, awareness of risk factors and appropriate medical care.

World Heart Day – 29 September

Every year on 29 September, World Heart Day raises awareness of cardiovascular disease and encourages people to take action for better heart health.

Throughout Heart Week, Yolanda Maartens speaks to experts from the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa about different aspects of heart health.

DAILY FOCUS

Day 1: Understanding heart failure

Cari Erasmus, registered dietitian at the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa, explains what heart failure really means. It does not mean the heart has stopped working, but rather that it is no longer pumping blood as effectively as it should.

Approximately 64 million people worldwide live with heart failure, while in South Africa, around one in five people over 40 are affected. Cari discusses the causes and risk factors, diagnosis, treatment and the importance of ongoing care and monitoring.

For more information you can visit:
https://www.heartfoundation.co.za/types-of-heart-disease/

Day 2: Coronary heart disease

Professor Pamela Naidoo, CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa, focuses on coronary heart disease (CHD). CHD occurs when blood vessels supplying the heart become narrowed or blocked, restricting blood and oxygen flow and potentially leading to a heart attack.

Naidoo explains the symptoms and risk factors, what happens following a diagnosis and how lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity, healthier eating and avoiding tobacco can help reduce your risk. Be mindful of your heart this World Heart Day.

For excellent resources and more information visit:
https://www.heartfoundation.co.za/heart-support-directory/

Day 3: Understanding arrhythmias

Nurse Gwendoline Petersen, health promotion and health risk assessment officer at the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa, looks at arrhythmias – irregular heart rhythms.

Symptoms can include a racing or fluttering heartbeat, dizziness, shortness of breath, weakness or fainting, although some people may have no symptoms at all.

Petersen explains how arrhythmias are diagnosed and how smartwatches may help detect possible irregular rhythms, while stressing they cannot replace professional medical diagnosis.

The Heart and Stroke Foundation of SA has wonderful resources that you can access online, visit them here:
https://www.heartfoundation.co.za/types-of-heart-disease/

Day 4: Check your blood pressure

For Day 4, the focus is on high blood pressure, or hypertension. Cari Erasmus joins Yolanda Maartens to explain blood pressure readings, what can cause hypertension and why regular checks are important.

High blood pressure often has no obvious symptoms, but can significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular complications. Erasmus discusses ways to prevent and manage it through healthier lifestyle choices and, where necessary, medical treatment.

This Heart Week, take a moment to know your numbers and have your blood pressure checked.

For more information, visit the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa’s blood pressure resources.

More information available here:
https://www.heartfoundation.co.za/blood-pressure/

Day 5: Don’t miss a beat

Juandre Watson, health promotion and health risk assessment programme team leader at the Heart and Stroke Foundation of SA wraps up Heart Awareness Month as it comes to an end. The message is simple: Heart Disease Can Hide in Plain Sight – Don’t Miss a Beat. Heart disease and stroke can sometimes develop without obvious warning signs, which is why knowing your risk and having regular health checks is so important.

Warning signs such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, dizziness, unusual sweating, or pain spreading to the arm, neck or jaw should never be ignored. Many everyday risk factors can also be managed, including high blood pressure, unhealthy eating, physical inactivity, tobacco use and uncontrolled cholesterol or blood sugar.

The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa encourages everyone to know their numbers, recognize the warning signs and make healthier choices to protect their heart. This World Heart Day, take a moment to listen to your heart and take action. Don’t miss a beat. sm

For excellent resources and more information visit:
https://www.heartfoundation.co.za/causes-of-heart-disease/