Every year on 29th September, the world celebrates World Heart Day, a global campaign that unites communities and healthcare providers to raise awareness of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). These conditions remain the leading cause of death worldwide, claiming around 17 million lives each year.
This year’s theme, “Don’t Miss a Beat”, is a reminder to pay attention to the signs of poor heart health, to adopt preventive measures, and to remain vigilant about regular check-ups. For older adults in particular, the message could not be more relevant. As we grow older, our hearts need greater care. The risks of high blood pressure, stroke, or coronary artery disease increase with age, and many older people either dismiss the symptoms or seek help too late. Chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and dizziness are all signals that something may be wrong.
Early recognition and timely medical advice can prevent complications and, in many cases, save lives. Lifestyle also plays a major role. Limited mobility, stress, poor diet, and habits such as smoking or drinking can all accelerate cardiovascular risks. Yet, with awareness and support, small daily choices, such as eating a balanced diet, staying active, and taking time to rest, make a profound difference.
A Brief History of World Heart Day
The origins of World Heart Day go back to 1999, when Antoni Bayés de Luna, then President of the World Heart Federation, proposed a dedicated global awareness day. The first official celebration took place on 24th September 2000. For over a decade, it was marked on the last Sunday of September, until world leaders set an ambitious goal in 2012: to reduce premature deaths from non-communicable diseases, including CVDs, by 25% by 2025. Since then, 29th September has been permanently recognised as World Heart Day, with more than 90 countries now taking part through campaigns, community events, and health initiatives
The most encouraging fact is that up to 80% of premature deaths from cardiovascular disease are preventable. Prevention starts with awareness. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a diet rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and reducing salt intake all support heart health. Exercise is equally important. Activities such as walking, swimming, or light resistance training strengthen the heart, improve circulation, and help manage conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Equally vital are lifestyle choices beyond diet and activity. Getting enough quality sleep, managing stress through hobbies or relaxation, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol all reduce the strain on the heart. For older adults, regular health checks like monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, are an essential part of prevention.
Global Inequalities
While awareness is growing in many parts of the world, cardiovascular disease continues to take the greatest toll in lower- and middle-income countries, which account for around 75% of CVD-related deaths. Lack of access to healthcare, screening, and public health information contributes significantly to these figures. World Heart Day therefore carries a dual role: encouraging individuals to act locally on their own health, and calling on governments and organisations to improve global access to cardiovascular care.
World Heart Day is more than an annual campaign, it is a reminder that our hearts need daily attention. For older people especially, vigilance, healthy choices, and routine medical care are the most effective ways to reduce risk. By working together as families, carers, and communities, we can ensure that fewer lives are lost to preventable conditions.