World Heart Day

World Heart Day is an international observance held annually on 29 September to raise awareness about heart health and cardiovascular diseases. It was initiated by the World Heart Federation with the goal of informing the public about the preventable risk factors of heart and vascular diseases and stroke.

History

World Heart Day was first celebrated in 2000. Its purpose is to inform the global population that premature deaths due to heart disease and stroke are preventable and to promote the control of their major risk factors.

Purpose and Significance

World Heart Day is observed to highlight the importance of heart health, encourage individuals to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, and reduce deaths caused by heart disease and stroke. Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of death globally and in Türkiye, claiming millions of lives each year. Therefore, early identification and control of risk factors are of critical importance.

Themes and Awareness Campaigns

Each year, a specific theme is chosen for World Heart Day to raise public awareness about heart health. For example, the 2025 theme is “Don’t Miss a Beat”, emphasizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle in maintaining a regular heart rhythm.

Global Situation and Practices

According to World Health Organization data, approximately 20 million people die each year from cardiovascular diseases.^【1】 One in three deaths worldwide is caused by noncommunicable diseases, a significant proportion of which result from heart disease and stroke. The World Heart Federation, with over 200 member organizations, conducts activities to improve heart health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

The Federation informs the global community that at least 80 percent of premature deaths from heart disease and stroke can be prevented by controlling risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diet, and physical inactivity.

To maintain heart health, increased physical activity, control of risk factors such as obesity and diabetes, and healthy eating are recommended. Engaging in moderate-intensity physical activity for at least 30 minutes five days a week reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, low-fat dairy products, seafood, olive oil and nuts, while avoiding sugary drinks and processed foods, is advised.

Situation and Practices in Türkiye

In Türkiye, approximately 28 percent of the 490,000 deaths recorded in 2024 were due to heart and vascular diseases. Each year, around 300,000 heart attacks and 125,000 deaths result from these conditions. Major risk factors include hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity and tobacco use.^【2】

In Türkiye, under the “Türkiye Prevention and Control Program for Heart and Vascular Diseases”, family physicians conduct annual cardiovascular risk assessments for individuals aged 40 and older. This assessment determines each person’s risk of dying from heart and vascular diseases within the next 10 years. In the past year, cardiovascular risk has been identified in 662,000 citizens, who have begun to be monitored in accordance with clinical guidelines.

Healthy lifestyle and dietary habits are promoted to protect heart health. Scientific evidence has confirmed the positive effects of the Mediterranean diet—rich in olive oil, vegetables, fruits, fish and nuts—on heart health in Türkiye. Consumption of red meat and saturated fats should be limited, and processed and sugary foods should be avoided.

Information and Awareness Activities

World Heart Day is organized to raise public awareness about heart health and encourage the adoption of healthy lifestyle habits. The Turkish Society of Cardiology supports public and professional education and research to promote heart health. On the occasion of World Heart Day, the Society raises awareness about heart attack risk and communicates preventive measures such as healthy eating, regular exercise and avoiding tobacco to the public.

Disclaimer: The content in this article is provided solely for general encyclopedic informational purposes. The information here should not be used for diagnosis, treatment or medical advice. Before making any decisions regarding health, you must consult a physician or qualified healthcare professional. The author and KÜRE Encyclopedia assume no responsibility for any consequences arising from the use of this information for diagnosis or treatment purposes.