World Heart Day, celebrated annually on September 29th, is a global initiative designed to raise awareness about Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) and promote heart-healthy living. This observance first took place in the year 2000, following the collaboration between the World Heart Federation and the World Health Organization (WHO). The campaign aims to unite people worldwide in the battle against CVD, driving international action to prioritize heart health. The theme for World Heart Day 2022 is “Use Heart For Every Heart”.
Understanding Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs)
CVDs encompass a variety of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, rheumatic heart disease, and others. These conditions form the leading cause of death globally, having claimed an estimated 17.9 million lives in 2019 according to WHO. Over 80% of CVD deaths are due to heart attacks and strokes, with a third of these fatalities occurring prematurely in individuals under 70 years of age.
The Indian Scenario
In India, CVDs account for a significant proportion of deaths due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). As per the WHO, in 2016, India reported 63% of total deaths due to NCDs, with 27% being attributed to CVDs. Furthermore, CVDs account for 45% of deaths in the 40–69-year age group.
The main behavioural risk factors for heart disease and stroke include unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption. The impact of these behaviours often becomes evident in individuals as intermediate risk factors, such as raised blood pressure, elevated blood glucose levels, increased blood lipids, and obesity.
Initiatives in India
To address the challenge of CVDs, the Indian government has implemented the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS), under the National Health Mission (NHM). This initiative is supplemented by programs like Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment (AMRIT) Deendayal outlets that aim to provide cancer and cardiovascular disease drugs and implants at discounted prices. The Department of Pharmaceuticals has established Jan Aushadhi stores to provide generic medicines at affordable prices.
STEMI Project
One noteworthy initiative is the STEMI project launched by the Maharashtra government in 2021. Recognised by NHM, the project aims to expedite the diagnosis of heart disease. STEMI, or ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction, refers to a condition where one of the heart’s major arteries becomes completely blocked, preventing oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart muscle.
Way Forward
Effective strategies for reducing the risk of CVDs include cessation of tobacco use, reduced salt intake, increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, regular physical activity, and avoidance of alcohol. Implementing health policies that make these healthy choices more readily available and affordable can motivate individuals to adopt and maintain healthier behaviours.
Early identification of those at high risk of CVDs can ensure appropriate treatment and prevent premature deaths. Ensuring access to noncommunicable disease medicines and basic health technologies in all primary healthcare facilities is crucial for providing the necessary treatment and counselling to patients.
