On September 29th, the world will unite in observance of World Heart Day, an initiative established by the World Heart Federation in 1999, by Antoni J. Bayés de Luna, who was the president of the Federation at that time. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of cardiovascular health and aims to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke, which remain the leading causes of death globally.

Here in Dominica, we are no exception to this challenge, as cardiovascular disease continues to affect people of all ages and backgrounds. The focus of World Heart Day is to encourage individuals and communities to take proactive steps in caring for their heart health. Simple changes, like engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, and managing conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease.

This year, to commemorate World Heart Day, under the Theme, Use Heart for Action, we are excited to host a special event—the World Heart Day Hike around Freshwater Lake. Scheduled for the 29th of September, this hike symbolizes more than just an adventure; it represents a commitment to prioritizing heart health through regular exercise. Walking, a simple yet effective form of cardiovascular exercise, is one of the best ways to strengthen the heart, improve circulation, and enhance overall well-being.

By participating in this hike, everyday people like you will play a key role in raising awareness and demonstrating that heart health is something we all need to prioritize. You don’t need to be a healthcare professional to make a difference. Through community-driven campaigns like this, we can all contribute to a healthier future for the Commonwealth of Dominica.

We invite everyone to join this heart-healthy movement! Whether you are young or old, seasoned hikers or just starting out, your participation will help shine a light on the importance of cardiovascular health in our nation. Let us come together, take a step—literally—toward a healthier future, and make this year’s World Heart Day truly meaningful.

See you at Freshwater Lake on September 29th for an unforgettable hike dedicated to heart health!

Written by Rachel Andrew MD. Consultant Cardiologist