The month of September is synonymous with raising awareness to Heart diseases.

Bearing in mind that cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in the world and that 80% of these could have been prevented with early treatment, it is still urgent to raise awareness so that everyone can lead a healthier lifestyle.

World Heart Day was intensely marked with three different events, joining groups that are active on a day-to-day basis in raising awareness to taking better care of your heart: the Faculty of Medicine, the CCUL (University of Lisbon Cardiovascular Centre), the SPC (Portuguese Cardiology Society), with close support from the WHF (World Heart Federation), of which Fausto J. Pinto is the President Elect.

On 26th September, a debate was publicised at the FMUL between Cardiologists which was open to all, joining several speakers who were just a click away. Widely known as e-Conversas(e-Conversations), the aim was to unite specialists in a certain clinical area to discuss in pairs, for anyone who wanted to raise doubts, ask questions and help find new ways to approach a certain topic.

“If there is just 4% investment in Health, how can we fight cardiovascular diseases?” – Fausto J. Pinto

Naturally, Fausto J. Pinto, the Chair of the Faculty, Cardiologist and Director of the Heart and Blood Vessel Department and the Cardiology Service of the University of Lisbon North Hospital Centre, invited several colleagues to discuss the state of Heart health, as well as the investments, or lack thereof, that health receives concerning cardiovascular research. From the importance of Education, to the increase in risk ratings for heart diseases, the active role that our own societies can take on was discussed. It was done so, however, with the understanding that there are still interests that counter those who want to rehabilitate victims of heart diseases. Taking part in this discussion were Ana Abreu, a Cardiologist with a particular interest in cardiovascular prevention, as well as Victor Gil, Chairman of the Portuguese Cardiology Society. The remaining guests joined from other parts of the country and the world via a new webinar system.

“We should commend the role of this Faculty for spreading these messages elsewhere. This is a vital role” – Victor Gil

But there are plans on the table that don’t demoralise the professionals involved and which require a regular, worldwide effort to find cooperative and more global solutions, without simply being at the mercy of internal investments. Focusing on cardiovascular rehabilitation, looking towards “physical exercise as a quasi-medicine,” monitoring a healthier diet and reducing or giving up tobacco altogether, can help you to get rid of any concerns.

“Studies show that higher rates of inactivity are directly linked to greater cardiovascular risks in patients” – Ana Abreu

Because one of the best solutions is a balanced diet, the Nutrition Laboratory, coordinating with Faculty Professor Catarina Sousa Guerreiro, organised two workshops led by CHULN Nutritionist Joana Malta, and chef Luís Castelo, responsible for the Oficina Oito project, which supports seminars, workshops and events on healthy cooking. The workshops were a success, with places open to all members of the Lisbon Academic Medical Centre (CAML) being taken up quickly.

If you’re in need of inspiration for new recipes, take note of the chef’s tips, with these recipe suggestions!

But the 29th was the official day to highlight cardiovascular diseases, filled with sporting and other recreational activities, screenings and information and food & drink stalls.

In the context of these global celebrations, the CCUL and the SPC joined the movement – “Illuminating the world red” – promoted by the WHF, and with support from Lisbon City Council, illuminated the Belém Tower, a UNESCO world heritage site and a landmark for anyone from Portugal.

The important attendees were not missing from this historic moment, the vital messengers of a mission: to save more hearts. While there’s still time.

This time next year, who knows if the statistics will change. Who knows if there will be at least one healthier heart!

Why not look after yourself and be inspired by the message from the World Heart Federation, which we reiterate here.

Thank you to Just News who kindly contributed with some photos

Joana Sousa

Editorial Team