The Maltese Cardiac Society is calling on the government, politicians, civil society and the general population to fight preventable heart disease.

The appeal was made before World Heart Day, which will be marked on Thursday 29 September.

“Cardiovascular disease is the top cause of death in many developed countries, including Malta. It is also responsible for many lost working days and high healthcare costs. Over the past 20 years over 1,300 Maltese men and women (an average of around 60 every year) under the age of 65 years have died with a heart attack. Premature deaths cause a high economic and social burden on our society. Coronary artery disease, which is responsible for heart attacks, is largely preventable.

Our country has invested heavily in cardiology and cardiac surgery over the past years in order to treat heart disease. However, primary prevention is cheaper and more effective than treating established disease. We encourage stronger action and legislation to prevent youngsters from starting smoking. Bold steps should also be taken to control the promotion of sugar and unsaturated fats to children. Exercise and sports should be given more importance in schools, and sports facilities should be made available in all localities.”

The Maltese Cardiac Society said it wanted to encourage the general population to regularly check their blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels and make sure they are under control. Smokers are advised to stop smoking. Making use of smoking cessation services increases the chance of success in quitting. We also advise regular exercise, as this reduces the chance of heart disease.

As part of the activities of this year’s Maltese Cardiac Society Conference a public awareness programme which will include talks, blood sugar and blood pressure checks, as well as a Cardiac Catheterisation Suite and Cardiac Lab open day, is being held at Mater Dei Hospital on Sunday 23rd October from 9 am to noon.