World Heart Day 2020: Spice Fm to host Cardiologist, Dr. Conrad Deckor for Awareness Creation
World Heart Day is observed on September 29 every year to mark the importance of a healthy heart and make people aware of heart diseases. The day was first observed in 1999. Every year, thousands of people die because of heart diseases.
However, health experts and doctors believe that these premature deaths can be controlled if people are more aware of heart diseases and take all the necessary precautions.
So as people across the world observe World Heart Day 2020, Spice Fm 91.9 MHz will bring you an exclusive interview on the “Adzekye Mu Nsem” morning show between the hours of 0800 and 0900 hours.
We therefore entreat all listeners to tune in as we host Dr. Conrad Deckor, Cardiologist at the Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital and Madam Dela, a Nutritionist in Takoradi in the Western Region.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the number 1 cause of death globally, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year. CVDs are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels and include coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, rheumatic heart disease and other conditions.
Four out of 5CVD deaths are due to heart attacks and strokes, and one third of these deaths occur prematurely in people under 70 years of age. Individuals at risk of CVD may demonstrate raised blood pressure, glucose, and lipids as well as overweight and obesity.
These can all be easily measured in primary care facilities. Identifying those at highest risk of CVDs and ensuring they receive appropriate treatment can prevent premature deaths. Access to essential noncommunicable disease medicines and basic health technologies in all primary health care facilities is essential to ensure that those in need receive treatment and counselling.
An estimated 17.9 million people died from CVDs in 2016, representing 31% of all global deaths. Of these deaths, 85% are due to heart attack and stroke. Over three quarters of CVD deaths take place in low- and middle-income countries.
Out of the 17 million premature deaths (under the age of 70) due to noncommunicable diseases in 2015, 82% are in low- and middle-income countries, and 37% are caused by CVDs. Meanwhile, here are some dos and don’ts you need to follow to keep a healthy heart.
Dos
Maintain a healthy diet – to keep your heart fit, this is the first step you need to take. Always maintain a diet and eat healthy which serves as a key to optimal health. Eat a lot of proteins and try different types of herbs and spices.
Do exercise regularly – apart from eating healthy, it is also important for people to exercise regularly. According to health experts, you need to participate in 30 minutes of moderate cardio 5 times per week.
Take proper sleep – you should take proper sleep too! Experts believe that sleep is directly linked to health as well as weight loss and people should have a consistent sleep schedule, and manage your stress – you need to avoid taking too much stress as it could cause several heart diseases. Take proper rest and spend some time with your friends and families to manage your stress.
Don’ts
Stop smoking, smoking can lead to a lot of problems, including heart diseases – it advised that people should quit smoking immediately to avoid heart problems; excess alcohol consumption – consuming excess alcohol is also dangerous and it is advised that people should stop it immediately to avoid heart problems.
Working for extra hours – hard work is fine but you should keep in mind that working for extra hours can take a toll on your health and that’s why you are advised to avoid sitting for extended hours at work; never assume that you are not at risk – you should never assume that you are not at risk. Always take the necessary precautions and follow a proper diet plan to prevent the risk of heart diseases.
Story: Seth Ameyaw Danquah
