In the lead up to Heart Valve Disease Awareness Week (February 26 – March 3), hearts4heart, clinicians and people living with heart valve disease are urging Australians, including those in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, to have a heart-to-heart about their heart health with their GP, and for those over 65 or experiencing symptoms, to get their heart checked.
Hearts4heart said it is proud to support free heart screening events during Heart Valve Disease Awareness Week at select hospitals in Victoria and New South Wales.
Heart valve disease (HVD) affects more than half a million Australians, yet public awareness remains low, an estimated 250,000 Australians are unaware that they are living with the condition and this number is expected to grow significantly.
If left untreated, HVD can damage the heart’s valves, leading to heart failure, stroke, and arrhythmia (an irregular heartbeat).
Described by some researchers as ‘the next cardiac epidemic’, heart valve disease is on the rise due to an ageing population and under-diagnosis.
Early detection and timely treatment can increase longevity and improve quality of life for those living with HVD, making education and awareness of the disease vitally important.
The hospitals participating are Melbourne Cardiac Services, Suite 7, 214 Burgundy Street, Heidelberg, VIC, 27th February from 9am – 5pm.
And North East Family Medicine Practice, Suite 1/90-100 Ovens Street, Wangaratta, VIC, Friday 1st March from 9am – 5pm.
