World Heart Day Start › News < back 29 Sep 2022 22 years ago, the World Heart Federation chose September 29th to celebrate World Heart Day. This day is intended to remind the population of topics that cannot be forgotten! As well as cardiovascular diseases and the adoption of better lifestyle habits, both eating and exercising. Currently, the main causes of death in Portugal and the world continue to be cardiovascular diseases! There are more than 17 million deaths per year, as a result of issues associated with the lack of change in habits and behaviors, which ends up causing the sudden appearance of diseases. There are many causes, from smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and even air pollution. Most of these causes are associated with habits and behaviors that are harmful to the health of the population, with 80% of the smoking population having a myocardial infarction before the age of 45. The World Heart Federation, together with the World Health Organization and UNESCO highlight the need to practice healthy eating at home and in the workplace. Every year, on this day, campaigns are held around the world to promote healthy lifestyle habits, such as: - Workshops for healthy eating; - Free screenings for the population; - Walking and running. In Portugal, the Portuguese Cardiology Foundation, together with municipal councils and various entities, carry out workshops and campaigns to raise awareness of good nutrition, free screenings and walks through municipalities.