World Heart Day 2021: Know the History, Theme and other details.

September 29 is observed as World Heart Day to create awareness about cardiovascular disease, heart disease and stroke. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), "more than 17 million people die from heart disease worldwide every year. The major cause of these fatalities is coronary heart disease or strokes." The day is observed to raise awareness among individuals about the prevention and control of cardiovascular disease (CVD). 

History of the day 

In 2000, the day was first observed by the World Heart Federation in collaboration with the World Health Organization on September 24. The observance was ideated by Antoni Baye de Luna, the former president of the World Health Federation. Till 2011, the day used to be observed on the last Sunday in September.

From 2012 onwards, it has been decided to observe the day on September 29 after world leaders pledged to reduce global mortality rates from these non-communicable illnesses by 25% by 2025. 

Theme of the day 

This year, the theme of World Health Day is 'harnessing the power of digital health to improve awareness, prevention and management of CVD globally'.

Significance of the day 

Established by WHF and WHO, the day is observed to inform people about the various cardiovascular diseases (CVD) that can cause serious health damage. Every year 18.6 million people die, and it is one of the leading causes of death in India. This can result in additional problems like heart failure, irregular heartbeat, etc., all of which can have a negative impact on one's overall quality of life. Therefore, measures are needed to keep not only the heart but the whole body healthy at an early age.