World Heart Day

What Is World Heart Day?

September 29th is "World Heart Day," an international observance established in 2000 by the World Heart Federation to promote the prevention of cardiovascular disease and raise public awareness.

A Shared Global Day to Confront Heart Disease and Stroke

Cardiovascular disease accounts for a huge share of deaths worldwide. World Heart Day was created to build greater awareness around preventing it.

• Established: Created in 2000 by the World Heart Federation
• Date: September 29th every year
• Purpose: To prevent cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke, and to spread accurate knowledge about them
• In Japan: Inspired by this day, Philips Japan, which makes AEDs, designated September 29th as "Heart Safe City Day," registered with the Japan Anniversary Association in 2018

Lifestyle Habits Shape Heart Health

Much of cardiovascular disease is closely tied to lifestyle factors — diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and stress. Small daily habits add up to have a major impact on your heart's health down the road.

In Japan, about 70,000 people are said to die every year from sudden cardiac death. Efforts are under way to place AEDs (automated external defibrillators) where they are needed and to increase the number of people who can use them, so that bystanders can act quickly when someone collapses.

Ways to Mark the Day

• Check your own heart health indicators, such as blood pressure and cholesterol
• Pay attention to cutting back on salt and fat in your meals
• Make time to move your body, whether a light walk or some stretching
• Talk with family or people close to you about preventing heart disease

Individual Awareness Protects Heart Health Everywhere

World Heart Day gives people around the globe a chance to understand cardiovascular disease and take action to prevent it. September 29th is a day to turn your attention, once again, to your own heart and the hearts of those you love.