Raising Awareness During the Heart Health Month

Heart disease is one of the most common causes of death worldwide, but many cases can be prevented or delayed through lifestyle changes and early intervention. This is why raising awareness about Heart Health Month is key.

The annual Heart Health Month initiative is dedicated to promoting understanding about cardiovascular disease (CVD) and its prevention, encouraging people to exercise, eat healthier, and adopt healthier lifestyles.

Throughout the whole month, many healthcare organizations like IMANA, volunteers and communities work together, highlighting why promoting education regarding heart health can save lives.

Why is February the Heart Health Month?

February Heart Health Month has been observed for decades, thanks to the strong support of leading organizations such as the AHA (American Heart Association) or the BHF (British Heart Foundation).

These organizations use February as the focal point for awareness campaigns, spending resources directed to education, which can encourage the public to participate in more healthy activities.

The main reason behind this is simple: people of all ages and backgrounds can be affected due to a combination of lifestyle, genetic, and environmental factors, such as:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Smoking
• Unbalanced diets
• Physical inactivity
• Chronic stress

All of these issues can increase the likelihood of developing heart conditions. Even small, consistent lifestyle changes can contribute to improved cardiovascular outcomes over time to avoid complications.

The Importance of Addressing Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are an umbrella term that medicine uses for conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, such as coronary artery disease, heart attacks, strokes or heart failure.

These complications can be caused by genetics, but the truth is that most of them happen because of unhealthy habits and environmental conditions.

A symptom related to CVD might not be clear during the early stages. This makes prevention extremely important. Regular checkups and education are needed to provide people with tools and knowledge about what to do.

Lifestyle Changes That Support Heart Health

One of the slogans for the February Heart Health Month is that changing to healthy lifestyles isn’t a hard task to achieve. There are many realistic recommendations that anyone can try, such as:

Short Periods of Physical Activity

While even short periods of movement are beneficial, organizations such as the WHO recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week for optimal cardiovascular health (or 10 minutes per-day).

Walking, stretching or cycling contributes to better cardiovascular health if done regularly. Since the sessions are very short, they’re easy to maintain in case you have limited mobility or a tight schedule.

Better Diets

One of the best ways to ensure good health is by reducing salt and added sugar intake, as well as limiting saturated and trans fats. This way, your body will manage blood pressure better, lowering the risks of diseases. A balanced meal with fruits, vegetables or grains is paramount.

No Smoking

Smoking cessation is one of the most impactful ways to improve heart health quickly. Campaigns usually reinforce the importance (and the benefits) of quitting smoking; but because it can improve the overall health of a person. You can check out our webinar with Dr. Azeem Elahi on valuable insights into smoking, vaping, and their impact on lung health.

Managing Stress

Not managing stress properly can contribute to high blood pressure and other coping behaviors that are considered unhealthy. Practices such as breathing, mindfulness or socialization can reduce stress.

Community Engagement and Awareness Campaigns

Besides daily practices, this month is the perfect moment to emphasize collective actions. Encouraging friends, family and loved ones to look out for one another is a great way to spread awareness.

The Wear Red Day is held during February, where participants wear this color to draw attention to prevention and medical research. Many foundations raise money through this event, supporting research and health programs.

For those looking to participate, there are many workshops, charity walks and digital campaigns to help, as well as activities for volunteers, like organizing events.

The Role of Volunteering in Heart Health Awareness

Volunteering is a cornerstone of Heart Health Month. Nonprofit organizations rely on volunteers to extend their reach and connect with populations that may otherwise lack access to health information.

Contributors help in many ways, such as organizing awareness events, sharing educational materials, supporting fundraising initiatives, or assisting with community outreach programs.

Their involvement helps ensure that heart health messages are inclusive, culturally sensitive, and accessible.

For those interested in health advocacy, Heart Health Month provides a meaningful opportunity to get involved, learn more about cardiovascular health, and make a tangible impact.

Global Recognition and Shared Responsibility

Although February Heart Health Month originated in specific national contexts, its message is global. Cardiovascular disease does not recognize borders, and neither does the need for prevention and education.

Organizations like the AHA and BHF collaborate with international partners to share research findings, best practices, and public health strategies. This shared effort reinforces the idea that heart health is a collective responsibility involving individuals, communities, healthcare systems, and policymakers.

Help Promoting the Cause

February is a key month for healthcare. It’s a powerful reminder that heart health is very important, and can be easily achieved with sustainable habits throughout the year.

Addressing the risk factors, making life adjustments, participating in awareness campaigns and other activities can raise awareness, and reduce the global burden of cardiovascular diseases.

Promoting prevention initiatives and aiding in early diagnosis can enhance healthcare systems, making it simpler to identify preventable deaths while also boosting the quality of life for millions.

Those interested in supporting heart health initiatives may consider donating or volunteering with organizations like IMANA, dedicated to improving health worldwide.