Heart disease remains one of the UK’s leading health challenges, but together, we can make a difference. Whether through small lifestyle changes, regular health check-ups, or simply learning more about how to care for your heart, now is the time to take action.

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) leads “Go Red for Heart Month,” an annual campaign each February to raise awareness about heart and circulatory diseases. Participants are encouraged to wear red and engage in fundraising activities to support BHF’s life-saving research.

Common Heart Conditions:

• Coronary Heart Disease (CHD): Occurs when the heart’s blood supply is blocked or interrupted by a build-up of fatty substances in the coronary arteries.
• Arrhythmia: An irregular heartbeat that can lead to complications if not managed properly.
• Heart Failure: A condition where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively around the body.

Risk Factors:

• High Blood Pressure: Increases the heart’s workload, leading to thickened and stiffened heart muscles.
• High Cholesterol: Elevated levels can lead to the build-up of fatty deposits in arteries, increasing the risk of CHD.
• Smoking: Significantly raises the risk of developing heart disease.
• Physical Inactivity: Lack of exercise contributes to weight gain and increased risk of heart conditions.
• Unhealthy Diet: Diets high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can contribute to heart disease.

Preventive Measures:

• Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week can improve heart health.
• Healthy Eating: Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps maintain optimal heart function.
• Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking reduces the risk of heart disease significantly.
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight lowers the risk of heart disease.
• Regular Health Screenings: Monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes status aids in early detection and management of potential issues.
• Participating in “Go Red for Heart Month” not only raises awareness but also emphasises the importance of heart health and supports ongoing research to combat heart disease.