<div>Cardiovascular diseases is the most common cause of death globally. In Pakistan, the number of people, especially young people, dying due to cardiovascular diseases is on the rise. Our country has committed to reducing the burden of heart diseases by a third by 2030 under goal 3 of the sustainable development goals.
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</div><div>Heart attack is the number one killer in the country and 30%-40% of all deaths are due to other cardiovascular diseases. Some of the risk factors that contribute to the disease burden include: use of tobacco, high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes, stress, unhealthy diet, and physical activity. </div><div>
</div><div>Every year, the Aga Khan University Hospital commemorates International World Heart Day by celebrating the entire week packed with awareness initiatives and fun activities. This year is no exception. ‘Red Week’ was celebrated across the Hospitals from 23 September to 29 September 2020. </div><div>
</div><div>This year’s global theme is ‘Use Heart to Beat Cardiovascular Diseases’, and so, AKUH is playing an active role around this important message. Our aim is to create awareness about the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and how to overcome its risk factors. </div><div>
</div><div>What many do not realize is that the first symptom of a heart disease can also be instantly fatal. While the pandemic is still not catching a break globally, this year has been particularly tough on heart patients. This is because, several symptoms of COVID-19 overlap with those of acute heart conditions, such as chest pain and shortness of breath. However, majority avoided hospitals and urgent care, due to the fear of infection. There was no surprise when this patient behavior resulted in the rise of latent heart and lung-related issues, the significance of which is not yet known.
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</div><div>It cannot be stressed upon enough that heart patients must not disregard their symptoms and instantly consult for urgent care. As every second counts in caring for acute heart conditions, AKUH has dedicated a heart emergency facility inside 24/7 Emergency Room.</div><div>
</div><div><a href="/pakistan/AboutUs/News/Documents/Red%20Week%20Pictures%20-%204102020_final.pdf">Red Week </a>was celebrated this year where the AKUH family showed their participation by wearing something red and showing their support to the larger objective of creating awareness. Most importantly, please remember that delaying your treatment can cause a greater and long-term impact on your health. </div><div>
</div><div>View More Pictures <a href="/pakistan/AboutUs/News/Documents/Red%20Week%20Pictures%20-%204102020_final.pdf">Here</a>
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</div><div>More information is available on:</div><p><a href="/pakistan/AboutUs/News/Documents/Red%20Week_September%202020.pdf">Red Week September 2020</a> ; <a href="/pakistan/AboutUs/News/Documents/Use%20Heart%20to%20Consult%20Early.pdf">Use Heart to Consult Early</a> ; <a href="/pakistan/AboutUs/News/Documents/Use%20Heart%20to%20Save%20Lives.pdf">Use Heart to Save Lives</a> ; <a href="/pakistan/AboutUs/News/Documents/Use%20Heart%20to%20Stay%20Active.pdf">Use Heart to Stay Active</a>
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