'Every heartbeat matters': Bangladesh marks World Heart Day 2025
Lifestyle changes are increasing non-communicable diseases in Bangladesh
With the theme "Every Heartbeat Matters", the National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh marked World Heart Day 2025 today (29 September), highlighting that cardiovascular disease is the world's leading cause of death, even though 80% heart attacks and strokes are preventable.
The day began with a rally from Mirpur National Cricket Stadium to the National Heart Foundation Hospital, attended by hundreds. A seminar at the foundation's auditorium was presided over by Prof Khondker Abdul Awal Rizvi, with Prof Dr Sayedur Rahman, Special Assistant to the Health Ministry, as the chief guest. Dr Rahman stressed that lifestyle changes are increasing non-communicable diseases in Bangladesh and called for collective efforts to prevent heart disease.
Prof Fazila-Tun-Nesa Malik, Secretary General of the Foundation, highlighted ongoing research and awareness campaigns, while Prof Dr Sohel Reza Choudhury noted that one in five deaths in Bangladesh is due to cardiovascular disease and urged stronger tobacco control. Other speakers included Naushad Hossain, Brig Gen (Retd) Prof Md Yunusur Rahman and Prof Tawfiq Shahriar Haque.
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The foundation also hosted a scientific seminar for 150 physicians, free heart check-ups, and nationwide awareness campaigns through its 45 affiliated bodies.
On the same day, Evercare Hospital Dhaka, the country's first JCI-accredited hospital, organised a special patient forum that emphasised early detection, lifestyle changes, and equal access to quality cardiac care.
A distinguished panel of cardiac specialists from the hospital addressed patients and relatives, answering queries about heart diseases and preventive care. Dr Ratnadeep Chaskar, CEO and Managing Director, and Dr Arif Mahmud, Group Medical Director, were also present.
During the forum, cardiologists highlighted the importance of every heartbeat and urged awareness of warning signs such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations. They emphasised that early detection through regular screenings can save lives and stressed the need to manage risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and family history. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and adequate sleep, was underscored as essential for heart health.
