The most vital organ of the entire human body also has its special day. Do you know why September 29 of each year is celebrated on the World Day of the Heart?
What is World Heart Day?
September 29 is the day that attempts are made to raise public awareness and promote measures to prevent cardiovascular diseases.
According to the Spanish Heart Foundation, 17.9 million people die each year from cardiovascular disease (CV), which includes heart diseases such as myocardial and cerebrovascular infarction. Today, CVD is the world’s leading cause of death and it is estimated that the figure will rise to 23 million by 2030.
17.9 million people die each year from cardiovascular disease.
Many factors influence the development of Cardiovascular Disease, among them we can find tobacco addiction, an unhealthy diet rich in fats and sugars, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure; and less common pathologies such as Chagas disease.
How Did International Heart Day originate?
This day was designated by the World Heart Foundation in conjunction with the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNESCO, currently being the largest platform in the world, to raise awareness among the general public and promote measures to prevent cardiovascular diseases, heart disease, and strokes; as well as creating healthy habits to care for the heart.
Cardiovascular Diseases and COVID-19
At a time of COVID-19 and fear of not wanting to go to consultations for fear of contagion, it is important not to neglect periodic reviews with the doctor specializing in the case of cardiovascular disease, since people with some heart disease find themselves with a very important front to take into account: they are exposed to a higher risk of suffering from COVID-19 at more serious levels.
Be careful with your heart and:
Eat well and consciously try to include fruits and vegetables in your diet, divided into at least 5 portions, and avoid processed foods that are rich in sugars, fats, and very high in salt.
Try to increase your physical activity with at least 30 minutes of exercise 5 times a week that you can combine with mid-intensity walks, dance, and even activities at home that help you keep your heart rate constantly increasing without exceeding.
The biggest favor you can do to your body, and especially your heart is to tell NO to tobacco. You will not only help yourself but you and the planet.