World Heart Day – 2024

The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa celebrates World Heart Awareness month during the month of September culminating in World Heart Day on the 29^th September 2024.  World Heart Day puts the spotlight on Cardiovascular Disease, Heart Failure and all Heart related matters. On this day we align with the World Heart Federation’s global programme to bring widespread awareness of this concern to the nation across all channels and all platforms. The day is designed to raise awareness around the world’s biggest killer following HIV and AIDS.

Why is heart health a global issue?

• Heart disease and stroke are the world’s leading causes of death, claiming 17.5 million lives each year
• At least 80% of premature deaths from CVD could be avoided by reducing risk
• In South Africa, 14% of people aged between 30 and 70 die due to CVD
• 31% of all deaths worldwide are from CVD, over 80% of these are in developing countries.
• The World Heart Federation is striving for a 25% reduction in premature deaths from CVD by
• 2025 and in those affected by Rheumatic Heart Disease, 25% reduction in those under the age of 25 years by 2025 – the so-called 25X25<25
• Congenital heart disease affects almost 1:10 children and is the most common birth defect globally.