The International Day for Interventional Cardiology is observed on September 16. The UN General Assembly proclaimed it in 2022 to spread awareness of cardiovascular diseases and interventional heart procedures. The date recalls the first coronary angioplasty, carried out by Dr. Andreas Grüntzig in 1977. Cardiovascular diseases, affecting the heart and blood vessels, are a leading cause of death worldwide. Interventional cardiology includes balloon angioplasty, where a small balloon opens blocked arteries. The day also highlights prevention, treatment, complications and access to cardiac care.