World Heart Day: St. Michael’s Specialist Hospital Leads The Charge In Cardiovascular Awareness

In observance of World Heart Day 2024, St. Michael’s Specialist Hospital (SMSH) organized a free cardiac screening event to raise awareness about cardiovascular health and emphasize the importance of early detection.

The event, held at the hospital’s premises in Accra, offered complimentary screenings to the public, providing an opportunity for individuals to assess their heart health. This initiative aligns with SMSH’s mission to promote heart health, encourage early diagnosis, and solidify its position as a leader in cardiac care.

This year’s World Heart Day theme, “Use Your Heart to Act,” encourages people to take proactive steps toward heart health.

The World Heart Day campaign focuses on awareness, education, and prevention.

SMSH’s event featured:

1. Free cardiac screenings (blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose checks)
2. Expert consultations with cardiologists
3. Health education on cardiovascular risk factors and management
4. Lifestyle counselling (diet, exercise, and stress management)

In an exclusive interview, Dr Lawrence Agyeman Sereboe, former Director of the National Cardiothoracic Center, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and the current Medical Director at SMSH emphasized the significance of this campaign. “Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death globally. Early detection and prevention are crucial. Our goal is to educate the public on the importance of heart health and provide accessible screening services.”

“Today, we raise awareness that heart diseases and stroke are the leading causes of mortality worldwide. 80% of these cases can be prevented through simple lifestyle modifications,” Dr. Sereboe added.

Dr. Sereboe stressed, “Regular check-ups and healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce cardiovascular risks. We aim to empower individuals to take control of their heart health.”

The use of shisha, according to Dr Sereboe, is particularly detrimental as an hour’s use of it is equivalent to smoking 100 cigarettes. Secondary smoking is also hazardous,” Dr. Sereboe warned.

Regarding hypertension, he noted, “In Ghana, hypertension cases have quadrupled in the past 20 years. Regular screenings and treatment can significantly reduce heart disease risks.”

The Medical Director further advised individuals to overcome fears and undergo regular check-ups. “Early detection and prevention are crucial. 80% of heart diseases can be prevented through lifestyle changes.”

He identified modifiable risk factors, including:

– Hypertension
– Diabetes
– High cholesterol
– Smoking
– Obesity
– Environmental

Key Statistics:

– Cardiovascular diseases claim 17.9 million lives annually (WHO)
– 80% of premature heart attacks and strokes can be prevented (WHO)
– Regular screenings and lifestyle modifications can reduce cardiovascular risks by 50% (American Heart Association)
– 17.9 million deaths annually from cardiovascular diseases (WHO)
– 80% of premature heart attacks and strokes can be prevented (WHO)
– Hypertension cases in Ghana have quadrupled in 20 years

Get Involved:

– Schedule regular health check-ups
– Adopt a balanced diet and exercise routine
– Manage stress effectively
– Educate loved ones on cardiovascular health

By hosting this event, St. Michael’s Specialist Hospital demonstrates its commitment to improving cardiovascular care in Ghana. The hospital’s state-of-the-art facilities and experienced medical team make it an ideal partner in the fight against heart diseases

By Kingsley Asiedu