As many as 80 percent of heart disease-related deaths worldwide are preventable, Sri Lanka College of Cardiology President Dr. Sampath Withanawasam has said, stressing the urgent need for collective action to combat the crisis.
Speaking at an event held at Viharamahadevi Park to mark World Heart Day, which is marked globally today (29), Dr. Withanawasam said simple lifestyle changes could drastically cut the risk of heart disease. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, quitting smoking, managing stress, and routine health checks were essential, he noted.
“It’s not only doctors and nurses who must know how to identify a heart attack and its symptoms,” he said. “Everyone should be aware. If you respond quickly, there is much the medical team can do. We all have a responsibility to care for our hearts, and it’s your duty to act on that responsibility.”
Marking the day under the global theme “Don’t Miss a Beat”, the College has organised a walk and awareness campaign in Colombo to remind Sri Lankans of the importance of living with a healthy heart.