World Heart Day
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World Heart Day is celebrated on the last Sunday in September every year. This initiative, which is run by the World Heart Federation's member organizations in more than 100 countries, is the most successful global campaign against cardiovascular disease. The need to designate a special day for activities to prevent heart disease and stroke grew from the challenge posed by the escalating burden of cardiovascular disease and its implications, particularly in developing countries. Since its creation in 1999, the day has helped to inform the public and policymakers about cardiovascular disease risk factors, healthy lifestyles, and the effectiveness of preventive measures. Activities on the day include health checks, walks, runs, jump rope, fitness sessions, public talks, stage shows, scientific forums, exhibitions, concerts and sports tournaments. Last year in Singapore for example, a World Heart Day heart fair attracted over 60,000 participants who took part in health screenings, aerobics classes, health quizzes, exhibits, school performances, nutritional counselling and food sampling. The activities are often geared toward the World Heart Day theme which changes yearly. In 2006 the World Heart Day campaign asked: “How Young is Your Heart?” and in 2005 it was all about maintaining a “Healthy weight, Healthy shape.” World Heart Day is co-sponsored by the World Health Organisation (WHO), UNESCO and UN Sport for Development and Peace.
