Heart Week 4-10th May

Heart Week (4-10 May) is Australia’s national campaign dedicated to sparking vital conversations about cardiovascular health and preventing heart disease. It encourages Australians, especially those 45 and older, to understand their risk factors and take proactive steps, such as booking a Medicare-subsidised Heart Health Check with their GP. Whether it's empowering health professionals with clinical tools or inspiring the public to make positive lifestyle changes like walking and healthy eating, Heart Week is a powerful reminder to take action and build the foundation for a healthier heart.

Australia's Heart Health Statistics:

• 1 in 6 people in Australia self-report as living with cardiovascular disease (CVD), representing 18% of the population
• CVD is responsible for causing 24% of all deaths
• Three quarters of Australians are at risk of developing CVD
   

Simple ways to get involved and create awareness:

• Book a Heart Health Check: If you’re 45 and over (or 30+ for First Nations peoples, 35+ for those with diabetes), see your GP for a Medicare-subsidised check-up.
• Find your "Heart Age": Use online tools to understand your personal risk factors, like blood pressure and cholesterol, and start a conversation with your family about heart history.
• Get moving together: Download a free Personal Walking Plan, join a local walking group, or simply invite a friend or colleague for a walk.
• Eat for your heart: Try out and share Heart Foundation recipes at home, or host a heart-healthy shared lunch at your workplace.
• Champion the cause: Health professionals can utilise the Heart Health Check Toolkit and Aus CVD Risk calculator, while workplaces and communities can wear and share Heart Week merchandise to make a visible, practical impact.

Whether you are taking a small step for your own health or sharing resources with your community, Heart Week is the perfect time to build the foundation for a healthier heart.

Visit the official Heart Foundation website to support their research, donate, or find resources for both clinicians and individuals.