World Heart Day is celebrated on September 29. It is a day to increase awareness about cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and their prevention.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), CVDs are the leading cause of death globally, claiming the lives of 17.9 million people every year. This year, on World Heart Day, clinics around the world are offering free heart health checkups to encourage people to take care of their heart health.

Significance of World Heart Day

World Heart Day was created by the World Heart Federation (WHF) in 2000 to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke. The day is celebrated worldwide to inform people about the risk factors and lifestyle changes that can prevent CVDs.

The aim is to promote heart-healthy behaviors, such as eating a balanced diet, being physically active, and avoiding smoking.

The Free Heart Health Checkup

The free heart health checkup is a quick and non-invasive way to assess your heart health. The checkup involves measuring your blood pressure, cholesterol level, and blood sugar level.

It also includes a physical examination to check for signs of heart disease, such as an irregular heartbeat or high blood pressure.

Who Should Get a Heart Health Checkup?

Everyone should have a heart health checkup at least once a year. However, if you have a family history of heart disease or have risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, or smoking, you may need more frequent checkups.

Preventing CVDs

Preventing CVDs involves making lifestyle changes that reduce your risk of developing heart disease. Here are a few steps that you can take:.

Eat a healthy diet that is low in saturated fat, trans fat, and salt
Exercise regularly
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
Manage stress
Maintain a healthy weight
Control your blood pressure and cholesterol levels
Manage diabetes if you have it

Conclusion

The free heart health checkup on World Heart Day is an opportunity to learn about your heart health and take steps to prevent CVDs.

By making lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking, you can reduce your risk of developing heart disease and live a healthier life.