Heart disease remains one of the top causes of death worldwide and in Jamaica. With World Heart Day on September 29, now is a good time to learn how to protect your heart.

What is Heart Disease?

Heart disease includes problems with the heart and blood vessels. It can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and even sudden death. It often shows no signs at first but may cause chest pain, shortness of breath, tiredness, dizziness, or a fast heartbeat. Some people feel pain in the neck, arms, back, or jaw, or swelling in the legs. Even mild symptoms should not be ignored. Regular check-ups are key.

Dr. Deron Reid, a Jamaican heart specialist, says about 30% of deaths in Jamaica are linked to heart disease. He also shares that 1 in 3 Jamaicans have high blood pressure—many without knowing it—which increases their risk.

Protecting Your Heart

The good news is that heart disease can often be prevented. You can protect your heart by:

• ​Doing at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week
• ​​Eating healthy and staying at a good weight
• Managing stress
• ​Controlling blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol
• ​Quitting smoking
• ​Sleeping 7–8 hours each night
• ​​Drinking water and avoiding processed foods

Heart screening is also important. Start around age 20. Get your blood pressure checked every year, cholesterol every 4–6 years (if you’re at normal risk), and monitor your weight and Body Mass Index.

If diagnosed, treatment includes healthy lifestyle changes and medications. In some cases, surgery like stents or bypass may be needed.

Why World Heart Day Matters

World Heart Day helps raise awareness and encourages healthy habits. In Jamaica, the Western Regional Health Authority and Cornwall Regional Hospital will host events and town hall meetings to educate communities.

Dr. Reid believes we also need more public education and support to help Jamaicans make lasting changes and ignore cultural myths that stop proper treatment.

World Heart Day reminds us that protecting our hearts is not only a personal responsibility, but also a national priority. By eating well, staying active, getting regular check-ups, we can all help reduce the burden of heart disease in Jamaica.