Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death and disability in South Africa and worldwide, but prevention is often possible.

According to the World Health Organisation, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) accounted for around 32% of all global deaths, with 19.8-million lives lost in 2022 alone. About 85% of those deaths were due to heart attacks and strokes, with most occurring in low- and middle-income countries.

In South Africa, women are disproportionately affected but remain underdiagnosed and undertreated, as they often present with atypical symptoms. Hormonal changes – particularly during menopause – and pregnancy-related conditions such as pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes further increase women’s lifetime risk.

National statistics show that black women and men experience the highest rates of CVD-related deaths in South Africa, with Indian and other Asian men also recording elevated figures.

This is according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA), which is preparing to mark Heart Awareness Month in September. The HSFSA will highlight a new heart-related topic each week, culminating in World Heart Day on September 29, themed “Don’t Miss a Beat.”

World Heart Day on September 29 – themed “Don’t Miss a Beat.”

Week 1: The burden of CVDs, with particular attention to women’s often overlooked symptoms and risks.
Week 2: The role of cardiothoracic interventions in saving lives.
Week 3: How multidisciplinary teams – from surgeons and cardiologists to dietitians and psychologists – support patients before and after surgery.
Week 4: Cumulative risk factors, showing how lifestyle choices, family history and environmental influences compound over time.

The organisation hopes to raise awareness on how the risk of CVDs can be lowered.

By addressing modifiable risks like tobacco use, diet, physical inactivity and air pollution, potential patients can limit their chance of cardiovascular issues. Early detection is also key in preventing costly treatments and surgical intervention.

The HSFSA, established in 1980, is a non-governmental, non-profit organisation which relies on external funding to sustain the work it carries out. It aims to reduce the burden of CVDs on South Africans and the national healthcare system.

To find out more information on the work they do, or to follow along with Heart Awareness Month activities in September, visit heartfoundation.co.za.

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