World Heart Day is observed on 29 September to raise awareness of cardiovascular health and encourage the prevention of heart disease. Led by the World Heart Federation (WHF), the 2026 campaign theme is "Don't Miss a Beat", and it focuses on three areas: see the signs, protect your heart and demand action. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including heart attacks and strokes, are among the leading causes of death worldwide. Major risk factors include high blood pressure, tobacco use, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, high cholesterol and obesity.