World Heart Day: small steps that could protect your heart

Today, 29 September, is World Heart Day — an annual global awareness day focused on cardiovascular disease (CVD), the group of conditions that includes coronary heart disease and stroke. This year's theme is 'Don't miss a beat', a call to take practical, everyday steps to improve heart health.

Richmond Council is marking the day by highlighting how manageable lifestyle changes can make a real difference. CVD is particularly significant because some conditions cause no obvious symptoms, making prevention and early awareness all the more important.

Key risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, being overweight, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. A family history of CVD also raises your risk, as do age and certain factors beyond your control.

If you are aged 40 to 74 and do not have an existing cardiovascular condition, the NHS offers a free Health Check — worth booking if you have not had one recently. Your GP surgery can advise on local referrals for support with stopping smoking, weight management or blood pressure monitoring.

Knowing how to respond in a cardiac emergency is equally valuable. A recent article in this edition noted free CPR and defibrillator training available in the borough on 4 October — still a good opportunity for residents who want to feel prepared.

Full advice and local health resources are available via Richmond Council's heart health page.