One in ten people in Cyprus lives with a heart condition, while one in three is at risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and one in five of losing their life prematurely. The figures were presented on Thursday at the launch of an islandwide awareness campaign by the Cyprus Society of Cardiology, focusing on prevention, early diagnosis and prompt treatment.
Key figures for Cyprus
Speaking at a press conference at the Journalists' Home in Nicosia, Dr Ira Irakleous, President of the National Committee for the Management of Cardiovascular Diseases, said cardiovascular conditions are the leading cause of death in Cyprus and a major cause of illness.
According to the figures she presented, one in ten people lives with a heart condition, one in three has a probability of dying from cardiovascular disease and one in five is at risk of premature death as a result.
The press conference was attended by Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides, Dr Evagoras Economides, President of the Cyprus Society of Cardiology, Dr Petros Agathangelou, President of the Cyprus Medical Association, Dr Irakleous and Nikos Christides, Sales Director at Medochemie.
Campaign ahead of World Heart Day
The campaign, held under the slogan "Don't miss the pulse of life. Live to its rhythm!", is timed to coincide with World Heart Day on 29 September.
Three pillars for tackling heart disease
In his address, Dr Economides outlined three key pillars for tackling cardiovascular disease: recognising symptoms and seeking immediate medical help, prevention through a healthy lifestyle and organised action by the state.
He urged the public to act early against cardiovascular disease, comparing it with the response to climate change. People should not wait for "the fire or the flood" before taking action, he said.
Implementing the national strategy
Dr Agathangelou said the priority is the consistent implementation of the National Strategy for the Management of Cardiovascular Diseases.
He said the strategy includes clear targets, timelines and evaluation indicators, as well as equal access for citizens to prevention, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. He also stressed the importance of interdisciplinary cooperationfor more effective prevention and treatment.
Dr Irakleous also underlined the importance of the national strategy, noting that tackling cardiovascular disease requires a coordinated and sustained effort.
Nearly 20 million deaths worldwide
According to the estimates presented, cardiovascular disease remains the most common cause of death worldwide, responsible for more than 19.8 million deaths each year. The figure could exceed 23 million by 2030 if prevention efforts are not strengthened.
In Cyprus, diseases of the circulatory system account for around one third of all deaths.
At the heart of cardiovascular problems is atherosclerotic disease, which develops gradually and can lead to serious complications such as coronary artery disease, stroke, and carotid and peripheral artery disease.
Prevention beyond a single day
The Cyprus Society of Cardiology says a significant part of cardiovascular risk can be reduced through early identification of risk factors, regular preventive check-ups and appropriate interventions.
Key preventive measures include a balanced diet, regular physical activity, quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy body weight.
Regular monitoring of blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, along with regular contact with a doctor, is also recommended.
Campaign activities across Cyprus
During the campaign, the public will be able to hear from cardiologists about the risks of cardiovascular disease and ways to prevent and treat it.
Activities include short informational films, educational material and publications in print and online media, as well as on social media.
On the evening of 29 September, buildings and landmarks across Cyprus will be lit up in red, including the Old Nicosia Town Hall and the THALASSA Municipal Museum in Ayia Napa.
Support and sponsorship
The campaign is held under the auspices of the Health Ministry, sponsored by pharmaceutical company Medochemieand supported by the Cyprus Medical Association.
Mr Christides said World Heart Day serves as a reminder of the need for initiatives that strengthen awareness and prevention. He noted that Medochemie, which is marking 50 years of operation, continues to invest in society and the wellbeing of citizens.
He also urged the public to seek information from specialists, follow their doctors' advice and adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Source: CNA
