AS World Heart Day is observed today with the theme ‘Use Heart for Action’, Pakistan faces a growing epidemic of cardiovascular disease. Once considered an issue predominantly affecting older populations, heart disease is now also being seen in younger individuals. The National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Karachi, recently reported that 15pc of the heart attack patients it receives are between the ages of 25 and 40. As it is, cardiovascular disease is responsible for 30-40pc of all deaths in Pakistan, making it the leading cause of mortality here. Poor dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, and high rates of smoking and hypertension are among the primary culprits. Pakistan is also witnessing a surge in obesity and diabetes — two conditions that drastically increase the risk of heart disease. According to the International Diabetic Federation, more than 33m people in Pakistan are living with diabetes, a condition that doubles the risk of CVD.

This year’s theme urges immediate action at both individual and systemic levels. On an individual level, prevention is key. A heart-healthy lifestyle — regular physical activity, a balanced diet low in saturated fats, avoiding smoking, and stress management — can dramatically reduce the risk of heart disease. However, public awareness remains low, particularly in rural areas, where healthcare access is limited, and educational campaigns often fail to penetrate. At a national level, Pakistan needs stronger public health policies that promote preventive care. Efforts to reduce trans fats in the food supply, encourage regular exercise in schools, and create public smoking cessation programmes are crucial. A significant proportion of the population remains unaware of the importance of regular health check-ups, allowing conditions like high blood pressure and cholesterol to go undetected until it is too late. With the youth increasingly at risk, addressing the root causes of poor heart health is essential. Let us get to the heart of the matter today to avoid a public health disaster tomorrow.

Published in Dawn, September 29th, 2024