The Ministry of Health has announced that Ghana will join the global community on September 29, 2025, to commemorate this year’s World Heart Day under the theme “Don’t Miss a Beat.”

The focus of the event is to raise awareness about Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) and promote prevention, early detection, and effective management.

According to the Ministry, Cardiovascular Diseases remain the world’s leading killer, claiming 20.5 million lives annually, with 75% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries.

In Ghana, CVDs are the leading cause of death among both men and women, with hospitals recording increasing cases of complications that could have been avoided with timely diagnosis and proper lifestyle interventions.

Health experts say evidence shows that up to 80% of premature deaths from heart disease can be prevented through healthier lifestyles.

These include eating more fruits and vegetables, reducing the intake of highly processed and salty foods, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and tobacco use, self-monitoring blood pressure, and adhering strictly to prescribed medications for those already living with CVDs.

The Ministry highlighted key interventions introduced by the government to fight Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), including the National NCD Policy 2022, which seeks to reduce risk factors and strengthen early detection and treatment.

Additionally, flagship initiatives such as the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCares) and the Free Primary Health Care programme are expected to make evidence-based health services more accessible and affordable, thereby reducing the burden of CVDs and other NCDs.

The Ministry further urged stakeholders, including health institutions, civil society, and community leaders, to intensify sensitisation and organise screening exercises not only on World Heart Day but throughout the year.

“As we mark World Heart Day 2025, let us commit to collaborative action that will improve heart health and reduce the growing burden of Non-Communicable Diseases in Ghana and globally,” the statement concluded.