Northern Health turned red for RebFeb in solidarity with loved ones impacted by heart disease.
RedFeb is an annual event, acknowledged by Heart Research Australia, which aims to raise awareness for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of various heart conditions, from coronary heart disease to heart failure, valve issues and arrhythmias.
Northern Health heart failure nurse practitioner Vikki Hannah says many people may not be aware of their risk factors for heart disease, as some risk-factors, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, have no symptoms.
“It’s never too late to manage your risk of heart disease and improve your heart health,” Ms Hannah said.
“Some risk factors for heart disease are beyond your control, such as age, gender, ethnicity and family history, but there is no one cause for heart disease. Most heart attacks and strokes can be prevented with healthy choices”
Heart disease stands as Australia’s primary cause of death. Ninety per cent of Australians possess at least one heart disease risk factor, highlighting the urgency of proactive health management.
Ms Hannah also highlighted that research shows women are much less likely to undergo treatment for a heart attack or angina in hospital compared to men.
“Even though chest pain is a common heart attack symptom for both genders, women may experience
different symptoms like back pain, vomiting or indigestion,” Ms Hannah said.
“Despite the rising number of people having heart attacks without traditional risk factors, there is
hope in prevention. By making healthy choices and staying informed, we can protect our hearts and the hearts of those we care about.”
Details: www.heartresearch.com.au/redfeb.
