The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) is organizing a health promotion and disease prevention event at Claremont Public Library on Thursday, March 6, from 09:00 to 15:00.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally, with 17.9 million fatalities annually; in South Africa, they account for nearly one in five deaths.
The HSFSA emphasizes that 80% of heart disease and stroke cases can be prevented through lifestyle changes and early detection, underscoring the importance of education and awareness initiatives.
The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) is calling on individuals to join its mission in raising awareness about cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).
The organisation will host a health promotion and disease prevention event at Claremont Public Library on Thursday 6 March, from 09:00 to 15:00.
According to World Health Organisation (WHO) reports last year, cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and strokes, remain the leading cause of death worldwide, claiming an estimated 17,9 million lives annually.
In South Africa, CVDs account for nearly one in five deaths, with many cases being preventable through lifestyle changes and early detection.
Established in 1980, the HSFSA has spent the past 45 years spearheading initiatives aimed at reducing these life-threatening conditions through community outreach, education, and advocacy.
Despite medical advances, 80% of heart disease and stroke cases can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle, making education and awareness crucial to saving lives.
Organiser Praniet Makanjee said: “The HSFSA focuses on multiple areas, including driving awareness through activations and promotions, educating the public on disease prevention, championing heart health advocacy, and providing guided educational programmes for all age groups. It also extends its efforts beyond South Africa, impacting the broader African continent and globally.”
As a non-profit organisation, the HSFSA relies heavily on donor funding to sustain its initiatives. Without financial support, many at-risk individuals may not receive the life-saving information and assistance they need.
“We ask both individuals and companies to work with us to amplify the impact of our programmes,” said Makanjee.
“Your donation, no matter how small, directly contributes to reducing CVD-related deaths and disabilities.”
Librarian Phindiwe Gana, who has been actively involved in elderly community programmes, emphasised the importance of hosting events like these in accessible public spaces.
“The library is more than just a place for books; it’s a space where people come to learn and grow. Health awareness is a crucial part of that learning. We are proud to host the Heart and Stroke Foundation and to help bring life-saving information to our community,” she said.
Makanjee stressed the significance of equipping communities with the right knowledge.
“Many people don’t realise how preventable heart disease and strokes can be. Through this event, we aim to educate, empower, and inspire individuals to make healthier choices,” they said.
For more information, the Foundation can be contacted via telephone at 021 422 1586, or visit their website at www.heartfoundation.co.za.
The Claremont Public Library event aims to empower communities with knowledge on maintaining a healthy heart and preventing strokes.
Attendees can expect engaging discussions, interactive health education sessions, and expert advice from health professionals.
“We believe that through mobilisation with the community, we can make a lasting impact and save lives,” Makanjee emphasised.
