The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, ADDED, today marked the start of World Heart Day, which will be fully celebrated on 29th September, as part of its efforts to promote its role in community responsibility.

This year's celebrations will be held under the slogan, "Revive Your Life," to emphasise the importance of preventing heart disease and reducing its global emergence.

During the event, Dr. Abdullah Shehab, Associate Professor of Medicine at the United Arab Emirates University, UAEU, delivered a lecture to the department’s participating employees informing them that various forms of heart disease are the main cause of deaths around the world, accounting for 31 percent of the total number of global deaths. However, increasing awareness and focussing on prevention could control the effects of these diseases, he said.

He explained that World Heart Day aims to raise the public’s awareness about how to reduce the risk factors related to heart disease, such as controlling one’s weight and regularly practicing physical exercise. He also noted that coronary artery disease is the main cause of deaths in all countries.

Dr. Shehab urged the attendees to practice all types of sports as a preventive system for many diseases, including heart disease, while stressing the importance of regular check-ups, especially when you experience sudden fatigue.