World Heart Day 2019

CVD (Cardiovascular Disease) claims the lives of 17.9 million people around the world each year. Created by the World Heart Federation, World Heart Day looks to highlight the dangers of developing CVD, including heart disease and stroke, and emphasises the actions individuals can take to prevent and control CVD. It also aims to educate people about their decisions and lifestyle choices in preventing CVD, because sadly at least 80% of premature deaths from heart disease and stroke could be avoided.

World Heart Day is a global campaign during which individuals, families, communities, and governments around the world participate in activities to take charge of their heart health and that of others. Through this campaign, the World Heart Federation unites people from all countries and backgrounds in the fight against CVD and drives international action to encourage heart-healthy living across the globe.

Do you feel confident in diagnosing CVD and offering the best support?

Finding a problem with your heart or circulatory system is a big fear for many of us but sadly it’s a reality for around 7.4 million people living in the UK. Many factors can contribute to a CVD diagnosis, including ethnicity (you’re at an increased chance if you’re of black or Caribbean decent), weight, alcohol consumption, diet, blood pressure and whether you smoke. As so many people are now at risk for all sorts of reasons, it’s more important than ever that healthcare professionals know how to read the signs and feel confident in offering the most effective treatment.

? Nurses! Doctors! Allied health professionals! Would you be able to tell if a patient was suffering CVD or was at high risk of it? Make sure you’re signed up to our two outstanding in-house #CPD courses, Chronic heart failure: assessment & management in primary care and The ABC of ECGs