One in three people in Cyprus is likely to die from cardiovascular disease, while one in five is at risk of premature death due to cardiovascular disease, according to data presented at the launch of the Cyprus Society of Cardiology’s Pan-Cyprus Information, Awareness, and Education Campaign.
The campaign, with the central message “Don’t lose the beat of life. Live to its rhythm!”, is being held in conjunction with World Heart Day on September 29 and focuses on the prevention, early diagnosis, and immediate treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
At a press conference held on Thursday at the Journalists’ Club, the Chair of the National Committee for the Management of Cardiovascular Diseases, Dr. Ira Heracleous, said that cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in Cyprus and a major cause of morbidity.
As she noted, one in ten of our fellow citizens lives with heart disease, one in three is likely to die from cardiovascular disease, and one in five is at risk of dying prematurely due to cardiovascular disease.
The press conference was attended by the Minister of Health, Neophytos Charalambides; the President of the Cyprus Society of Cardiology, Dr. Evagoras Economides, the President of the Cyprus Medical Association, Dr. Petros Agathangelou, the President of the National Committee for the Management of Cardiovascular Diseases, Dr. Ira Heracleous, and Nikos Christidis, Sales Director at Medochemie.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Oikonomidis highlighted three key pillars for addressing cardiovascular diseases: specifically, recognizing symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention, prevention through the adoption of a healthy lifestyle, and organized action by the government.
Addressing the public, he emphasized the need for timely action against cardiovascular disease, comparing it to the fight against climate change and noting that we must not wait for “a fire or a flood” to take action.
The President of the Pan-Cyprian Medical Association stressed that what is needed is the consistent implementation of the National Strategy for the Management of Cardiovascular Diseases.
As Mr. Agathangelou noted, the Strategy includes clear objectives, timelines, and evaluation indicators, as well as equal access for citizens to prevention, early diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.
At the same time, he emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration for the more effective prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Dr. Heracleous, for her part, emphasized the importance of the National Strategy, noting that addressing cardiovascular diseases requires a coordinated and sustained effort.
Nearly 20 million deaths worldwide
According to estimates presented at the press conference, cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for more than 19.8 million deaths each year. This number is likely to exceed 23 million by 2030 if prevention efforts are not strengthened.
In Cyprus, cardiovascular diseases account for approximately one-third of all deaths.
At the heart of cardiovascular problems lies atherosclerotic disease, which progresses gradually and can lead to serious complications, including coronary artery disease, strokes, and carotid and peripheral artery disease.
“Prevention is not a one-day affair”
The Cyprus Society of Cardiology points out that a significant portion of cardiovascular risk can be reduced through the early identification of risk factors, regular preventive checkups, and appropriate interventions.
In the context of prevention, a balanced diet, regular physical activity, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy body weight are particularly important.
At the same time, it is recommended to have your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar checked regularly, as well as to maintain regular communication with your doctor.
Awareness Campaign Across Cyprus
During the campaign, the public will have the opportunity to learn from cardiologists about the risks of cardiovascular disease and ways to prevent and manage it.
The campaign includes, among other things, educational videos, informational materials, and publications in print and online media, as well as on social media.
On September 29, the evening of World Heart Day, buildings and landmarks in various parts of Cyprus will be symbolically illuminated in red. These include the Old Nicosia City Hall and the THALASSA Municipal Museum in Ayia Napa.
The campaign is held under the auspices of the Ministry of Health, sponsored by Medochemie Pharmaceuticals, and supported by the Cyprus Medical Association.
For his part, Mr. Christidis noted that World Heart Day underscores the need for initiatives that promote awareness, awareness, and prevention, noting that the company, as it marks its 50th anniversary, continues to invest in society and the well-being of citizens.
At the same time, it called on citizens to seek information from medical experts, follow their doctors’ instructions, and adopt a healthier lifestyle.
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Source: CNA
