Heart Month

Heart Month is a dedicated campaign aimed at raising awareness about cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death globally. In Ireland, it is officially observed in in September (Irish Heart Month).

Key Initiatives & Campaigns:

• Ireland (September): Led by the Irish Heart Foundation, the campaigns highlight specific issues like women’s heart health during menopause, promoting early symptom recognition and free blood pressure checks at local pharmacies.

Core Focus Areas

• Risk Factors: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking.
• Preventive Measures: Following the American Heart Association’s “Life’s Essential 8,” which focuses on eating better, staying active, quitting nicotine, getting healthy sleep, and managing weight and cholesterol levels.
• Recognizing Symptoms: Educating the public on the different ways heart attacks can present, particularly in women where symptoms might include atypical upper back pain, jaw pain, nausea, and shortness of breath instead of just chest pain.

How to Get Involved

Learn CPR: Hands-only CPR workshops and courses are heavily promoted during this time. Find a local class through the Irish Heart Foundation CPR Courses or the American Heart Association CPR & First Aid portal.

Get Screened: Many local pharmacies and health clinics offer free or low-cost blood pressure and cholesterol checks during these months.

Assess Your Risk: Use the American Heart Association Risk Calculator to evaluate your cardiovascular health.