Heart and Stroke Foundation spearheads awareness campaign this Valentine's month

This February, the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) will kick off its annual fundraising drive, a heartfelt initiative that coincides with Valentine’s Day. This month-long campaign aims to shine a light on the significant burden of heart disease and strokes, which account for nearly 1 in 6 deaths in South Africa. Prof Pamela Naidoo, CEO of the HSFSA, has expressed a strong call to action to both the public and organisations, urging them to engage in advocacy and mobilisation efforts to reduce the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

“Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular conditions are the leading causes of death and disability within the non-communicable disease cluster in South Africa,” states Prof Naidoo. “However, 70% to 80% of heart disease and strokes can be prevented through the uptake of healthy behavioural choices.”

The HSFSA is a non-profit organisation reliant on donor funding and community partnerships to implement vital health education programmes. With a focus on communities with limited access to health services, their outreach efforts span schools, public spaces, and private enterprises. The funds raised this February will be devoted to enhancing and expanding these essential programmes, which include specialised teams focused on health promotion and disease prevention, nutrition, and health risk assessments.

The foundation's innovative Heart Mark Endorsement Programme is a cornerstone of their health advocacy, guiding consumers toward making healthier food choices. By promoting a balanced diet rich in essential micro and macro nutrients, the programme contributes not only to reducing CVD, but also to combatting other non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

On Valentine's Day, the HSFSA will host various activities across the country, fostering community participation and raising awareness in a unique and engaging way. Prof Naidoo reminds us, “The value that the HSFSA brings is to create public awareness with an impact, which ultimately results in positive health outcomes.” The integration of traditional and social media further amplifies their message, reaching audiences far and wide.

As the foundation gears up for this vital month of action, they invite the community to show their “healthy-heart-love” by contributing through donations. Details on how to support the HSFSA and learn more about their Heart Mark programme can be found at www.heartfoundation.co.za.

As we approach Valentine’s Day, an awareness of our heart health becomes paramount. The Heart and Stroke Foundation is not only advocating for immediate attention to these preventable diseases but is also providing pathways to healthier living for all South Africans.

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