On September 27, 2024, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with key stakeholders, launched the 2024 World Heart Day commemorative activities in a bid to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and promote heart health.

The event saw the participation of government officials, health experts, civil society organizations, and representatives from the World Heart Federation.

This year’s World Heart Day, marked under the theme “Use Heart for Action,” emphasizes the need for personal responsibility and collective efforts to combat the growing burden of heart disease in Ghana and around the world.

The Chief Director of the Ministry of Health, in his address, highlighted the significance of driving public awareness and encouraging policy action on CVDs.

“Cardiovascular diseases are the world’s leading cause of death, with over 20.5 million people globally succumbing to CVDs each year. It is vital for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the general public to prioritize heart health and work toward reducing preventable deaths,” he stressed.

The Chief Director also noted that over 75% of CVD-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, such as Ghana.

He lauded the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to address non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including the development of a national NCD policy and strategy in 2022, which focuses on prevention, health promotion, and the achievement of Universal Health Coverage by 2030.

Deputy Minister of Health, Alexander Akwasi Acquah, reiterated the government’s commitment to reducing the rising incidence of CVDs in the country.

He highlighted the importance of lifestyle choices in preventing heart disease and called for the strengthening of partnerships to address the issue.

“Today’s theme, ‘Use Heart for Action,’ challenges us to take personal responsibility for our heart health. It also calls for collective action to create systems that make healthy choices more accessible for all.”

He emphasized the need for continued collaboration between the government, civil society, private sector, and international organizations to ensure that cardiovascular diseases no longer pose a significant threat to public health.

The event's special guest, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation and President of the Ghana Heart Foundation

He encouraged all Ghanaians to practice healthy lifestyles, emphasizing that premature deaths caused by CVDs are preventable through simple actions such as regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding harmful substances like tobacco and excessive alcohol.

“There is a strong connection between mental health and the heart. Stress and anxiety can affect the heart and increase the risk of heart disease. However, a healthy heart cultivates a healthy brain and emotional well-being.”

As the World Heart Day activities kick off in Ghana, the Ministry of Health and its partners are committed to raising awareness about heart disease and promoting preventive measures that will reduce the CVD burden.

AM/KA

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