World Heart Day 2016
World Heart Day 2016Reuters

Heart health has become a major concern as statistics reveal that 17.3 million lives are lost worldwide each year due to heart strokes and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). It's estimated that by 2030, this figure will go up to 23 million people, according to Geneva-based NGO World Heart Federation (WHF).

The occasion of World Heart Day therefore comes to the prominence, with the aim to spread awareness about heart ailments.

Since its inception in September 2000, the World Heart Day has been celebrated each year with a theme which is closely related to heart health. The theme for World Heart Day this year is "creating heart healthy environments."

WHF members have come together to inform that around 80 per cent of premature deaths caused by CVD could be prevented by four main risk triggering factors which include tobacco consumption, binge drinking, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity.

The day's celebrations are believed to be successful if organisations all around the world proactively participate and help in spreading the word that CVD is one of the major causes of deaths around the world.

How to keep heart ailments at bay

All you need to do is follow a healthy diet which is balanced and contains all sorts of nutrients, antioxidants and good cholesterol referred to as the high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

Also, make sure that you workout daily to keep you heart and body fit. Do visit your doctor for regular check-up every once in a while.

Ten tips for a healthy heart

  1. Quit smoking
  2. Cut down on alcohol
  3. Lower salt intake and high sodium foods
  4. Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day
  5. Eat more fish, fibre and fruits
  6. Reduce stress - Get an engaging hobby
  7. Get enough sleep
  8. Do your yearly health check-ups
  9. Be aware of heart disease and symptoms
  10. If there's a family history of heart disease, pay attention to your health

How to celebrate World Heart Day 2016

You can celebrate World Heart Day by partaking in activities such as running, public talks and screening conducted near your locality.

The WHF website has stated that you can also participate via social media. All you need to do is click a 'Healthy Heart Selfie' and tweet it with hashtag #worldheartday.