When did you last check your blood pressure, have your cholesterol tested or make time for a walk? To mark World Heart Day on 29 September, we at Dr Mačkić Clinic would like to remind you that caring for your heart begins with everyday choices and identifying risk factors early.
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, claiming more than 20 million lives each year, according to the World Heart Federation. Yet much of this burden can be prevented by addressing risk factors and providing timely, accessible treatment. This year’s campaign, “Don’t Miss a Beat,” highlights the importance of recognising the signs of heart disease and taking an active role in protecting your heart health.
To mark World Heart Day, Dr Milan Gluhović, an internal medicine specialist and cardiologist at Dr Mačkić Clinic, appeared on BHTV’s morning programme alongside Professor Belma Pojskić, President of the Association of Cardiologists in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This appearance forms part of ongoing efforts to raise public awareness of cardiovascular health.
Watch the interview:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QHF_DHV8VUY from 8min.
One of the most important messages in prevention is that having no symptoms does not mean having no risk. High blood pressure often causes no symptoms and may only be detected through measurement. If it remains undiagnosed and untreated for a long time, it can damage the heart, blood vessels and kidneys, and increase the risk of stroke. That is why regular checks matter, even when we feel well.
There is a great deal we can do to protect our hearts through a few practical steps:
- Know your numbers. Have your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose checked as recommended by your doctor.
- Stop smoking. Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps you can take to reduce your cardiovascular risk.
- Stay physically active. Make walking and other activities part of your routine, adapted to your abilities and health.
- Choose a balanced diet. Eat more vegetables and fruit, reduce salt intake and limit highly processed foods.
- Follow your treatment plan consistently. Managing high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol is an essential part of protecting your heart and blood vessels.
It is also important to recognise when immediate action is needed. New chest pain or pressure, particularly when accompanied by shortness of breath, cold sweats, nausea or pain spreading to the arm, back or jaw, requires urgent medical assessment. Sudden weakness on one side of the body or difficulty speaking is also a reason to call emergency medical services immediately.
At Dr Mačkić Clinic in Sarajevo, we want every patient to understand their risk factors and receive a clear, personalised plan for follow-up and treatment. A consultation, clinical examination and carefully selected diagnostic tests help us tailor our recommendations to your needs.
This World Heart Day, we encourage you to take the first step: check your blood pressure, make time for physical activity or book the appointment you have been putting off.
Make caring for your heart part of every day.
Dr Mačkić Clinic – Sarajevo
Milan Gluhović MD, MA, FESC, FHFA, Internal Medicine Specialist and Cardiologist