Study OAS · 29 September 2025

World Heart Day 2025

What’s the News?

World Heart Day 2025 is observed globally on September 29 with the theme “Don’t Miss a Beat”, emphasizing continuous vigilance in cardiovascular health and the importance of early detection and prevention of heart diseases.
The campaign, led by the World Heart Federation (WHF) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), aims to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)—the leading cause of death worldwide—and encourages individuals to prioritize heart health through timely action and lifestyle changes.

The “Don’t Miss a Beat” theme underscores:

The critical need to not ignore warning signs of heart conditions.
The importance of regular health check-ups and early diagnosis to prevent avoidable deaths.
A call to action for individuals, families, and health systems to ensure no heartbeat is lost prematurely due to preventable causes.

Key Facts on CVDs in India:

CVDs account for over 30% of all deaths in India (ICMR-INDIAB study).
India faces a double burden: rising CVDs in urban areas due to sedentary lifestyles, and persistent risk in rural regions due to limited healthcare access.
Risk factors include hypertension, diabetes, tobacco use, unhealthy diets, and physical inactivity.

Origin of World Heart Day:
- First launched in 1999 by the World Heart Federation with support from WHO.
- Initially observed on the last Sunday of September; since 2000, fixed on September 29.
World Heart Federation (WHF):
- A global NGO headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
- Represents over 200 heart foundations, scientific societies, and patient organizations across 100+ countries.
- Works to reduce the global burden of CVDs through advocacy, policy influence, and public health campaigns.
India’s National Response:
- National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, CVDs and Stroke (NPCDCS):
  - Launched under the National Health Mission (NHM).
  - Focuses on screening, early diagnosis, and management of CVDs at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (formerly Sub-Centres and PHCs).
  - Targets population aged 30+ years for hypertension and diabetes screening.
- Fit India Movement and Eat Right India also complement CVD prevention through promotion of physical activity and healthy diets.