Cholesterol Awareness Week 2024

 

Monday 11 November 2024: This week, leading heart charities unite to help raise awareness of high cholesterol – a condition that affects approximately 2.1 million Australians, with the launch of Australia’s first ever Cholesterol Awareness Week (11-17 November).

Known as the ‘silent disease’ as it often presents with no symptoms, high cholesterol is a critical risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), an umbrella term for diseases caused by fatty deposits silently building up in the arteries. If left untreated, ASCVD can lead to heart attacks and strokes, accounting for 85% of all cardiovascular-related deaths worldwide.6

In recent years, ASCVD was the underlying cause of nearly a quarter (45,000) of all deaths in Australia, significantly contributing to the $14.3 billion in healthcare costs attributed to cardiovascular diseases (CVD).

Spearheaded by  Heart Support Australia, Hearts4heart and Heartbeat of Sport, Cholesterol Awareness Week aims to empower all Australians with the knowledge and resources they need to take proactive steps towards managing high cholesterol at both individual and policy levels.

As a crucial first step, the campaign encourages all Australians to speak to their doctor to understand their personal risks of high cholesterol.

“We all have it, we all need it— but concerningly, most Australians have limited understanding of what cholesterol is and the true impact it can have on our heart health,” said Tanya Hall, CEO and founder of Hearts4heart. “High cholesterol and ASCVD can be prevented and managed. The key is in early detection, so we urge all Australians to be heart smart and speak to their doctor about a heart health check-up, today.”

As part of Cholesterol Awareness Week 2024, free heart screenings will be available to all adults attending the VAILO Adelaide 500, from 14 to 17 November.

“By bringing free heart testing directly to local sports grounds, events and communities, we help people to #KnowYourNumbers and make healthier choices,” said Andy Paschalidis, founder of Heartbeat of Sport.

“We’re thrilled to make heart checks more accessible at community sporting events across Australia, helping to reduce the number of cardiac incidents nationwide.”

Dr Christian Verdicchio, CEO of Heart Support Australia emphasised the importance of the simple steps all Australians can take to prevent heart conditions. “Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death and hospitalisations in the country and it can be prevented by prioritising a simple appointment with your GP or cardiologist,” said Dr Verdicchio. “Many Australians who survive cardiac events wish they had started the conversation sooner. Don’t wait – speak to your healthcare professional today. It could save your life.”

Effective management of high cholesterol and ASCVD often requires changes to lifestyle behaviours, including diet and physical activity, and may involve adherence to medication. As such, regular consultations and open communication between patients and healthcare practitioners are essential for effective management of the condition.
To listen to our CEO being interviewed by SBS during the week click here. www.sbs.com.au/language/samoan/sm/podcast-episode/the-silent-disease-check-your-cholesterol-level/7ypki6z6j
To watch our CEO on Channel 9 News see below. 

Cholesterol Awareness Week 2024

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