World Heart Day is an international awareness day held each year on 29 September to raise awareness of cardiovascular disease, the world’s leading cause of death.
The day focuses on prevention, early detection, and heart-healthy living, while also highlighting the long-term impact heart disease can have on individuals, families and carers.
Why this matters
- Heart disease affects people of all ages and often develops silently over many years.
- Many heart-related conditions are preventable through lifestyle changes and early intervention.
- Sudden cardiac events can leave families facing urgent medical decisions with little warning.
- Ongoing heart conditions may affect capacity, independence, and quality of life.
- Planning ahead helps ensure medical wishes are known if someone cannot speak for themselves.
World Heart Day reinforces the link between everyday health choices and future outcomes, reminding us that prevention, awareness and planning go hand in hand.
Event Co-ordination / Support
International
- World Heart Federation
Global organisation leading World Heart Day, focused on cardiovascular health advocacy, prevention and education worldwide.
Australia
- Heart Foundation
National charity supporting Australians through heart health education, research funding and prevention programs.
