RAJSHAHI, Sept 29, 2024 (BSS) - Checking high blood pressure and uncontrolled diabetes can be the crucial means of substantial and sustainable reduction of mortality and morbidity caused by heart diseases.
 
The number of various non-communicable diseases (NCD), including cardiac ailments and stroke, is increasing sharply as reckless life-style and food habits are largely responsible for the diseases.
 
Hypertensions, diabetes, obesity, having unhealthy diets alongside consumption of tobacco products are blamed for the alarming rise in the disease.
 
Cardiac specialists and health experts came up with the observation while addressing a post-rally seminar-cum-discussion to mark World Heart Day 2024 at National Heart Foundation (NHF), Rajshahi today.
 
From 2024 to 2026, the campaign will focus on the theme "Use Heart for Action," urging individuals to prioritize their heart health while encouraging leaders to take cardiovascular health seriously.
 
This theme aims to create a global platform for meaningful action, shifting the focus from awareness to empowerment with clear goals.
 
It emphasises the dual approach of influencing policies and advocating for lifestyle changes, highlighting the need for sustained efforts and collaboration.

Prof Roish Uddin, Director-cum-Chief Consultant of National Heart Foundation Hospital and Research Institute, Rajshahi, Civil Surgeon Dr Abu Sayeed Muhammad Faruque, NHF General Secretary Prof Habibur Rahman and Executive Members Prof Abu Bakar Siddique and Enamul Haque addressed the seminar.

During his keynote presentation, Dr Molla Iftekhar Hossan, Assistant Professor of the department of Heart Diseases and Medicine at Rajshahi Medical College and Hospital, disseminated his expertise on the issue.
 
Prof Roish Uddin said some other factors, including lack of exercise as well as the habit of eating fast food, taking soft drinks or various drugs and drinking alcohol, were largely responsible for heart ailments.
 
He, however, said modification of life-style, proper control of blood glucose and hypertension and treatment of lipid disorders can help manage the risk factors of heart attack.
 
Prof Roish Uddin said high blood pressure is known as "the silent killer" as it remains without symptoms in most individuals. High blood pressure causes wear and tear of the delicate inner lining of blood vessels.

On the occasion, a heart camp was conducted providing different tests and prescriptions for 105 patients suffering from heart diseases free of cost.