World Heart Day was observed on September 29 with the World Heart Federation's 2026 theme, 'Don't Miss a Beat', urging people to recognise the warning signs of cardiovascular disease before it is too late. Cardiovascular diseases remain the world's leading cause of death, and India is witnessing a worrying rise in premature heart disease among people in their 30s and 40s.

The campaign rests on three pillars: see the signs, protect your heart and demand action. It highlights how heart disease can hide in plain sight, with silent risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking and physical inactivity doing damage for years before symptoms appear.

Cardiologists stress that most heart disease is preventable through regular check-ups, a balanced diet, daily physical activity, adequate sleep and avoiding tobacco. The Federation is also calling on governments to expand access to prevention, diagnosis and treatment, and to implement national cardiovascular health action plans.