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<\/p>\nWe are living in unprecedented times. The COVID-19 pandemic<\/a> has shone a spotlight on the healthcare profession, national healthcare systems and our individual responsibilities \u2013 for our own health and for the vulnerable in society.<\/p>\n
So this year on 29 September, our campaign is asking the world to:<\/p>\n
Cardiovascular disease (CVD)<\/a> is the number one cause of death on the planet. It has many causes: from smoking<\/a>, diabetes<\/a>, high blood pressure<\/a> and obesity<\/a>, to air pollution<\/a>, and rare and neglected conditions such as Chagas Disease<\/a> and cardiac amyloidosis.<\/p>\n
In the time of COVID-19<\/a>, CVD patients are faced with a double-edged threat. Not only are they more at risk of developing severe forms of the virus, but they may also be afraid to seek ongoing care for their hearts.<\/p>\n
To understand what it takes to live a heart-healthy life and to act on that knowledge, changing your behaviour for a better quality of life now and in the future.<\/p>\n
As an individual to set an example for your loved ones.<\/p>\n
As a healthcare professional to help your patients make positive changes for their heart health.<\/p>\n
As an employer to invest in the heart health of your employees.<\/p>\n
As a government to implement policies and initiatives that will lead to better societal heart health, such as sugar taxes, smoking bans and reducing air pollution.<\/p>\n
To look beyond the self and act in ways that support the most vulnerable in society; those with underlying heart-related conditions that may put them at greater risk in the time of COVID-19.<\/p>\n
Visit worldheartday.org<\/a> to learn more.<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"