Kampala, Uganda – Every year on September 29, the world pauses to reflect on the importance of the heart, the organ that keeps us alive. This year, Uganda joined the rest of the globe to commemorate World Heart Day, a campaign initiated by the World Heart Federation in 2000 to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).
Cardiovascular diseases, which include heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure, remain the leading cause of death globally, claiming nearly 18 million lives annually, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). More than 80% of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries like Uganda, where limited access to preventive care, unhealthy diets, and sedentary lifestyles are key challenges.
The 2025 theme, “Use Heart for Action,” is a call for individuals, communities, and governments to take practical steps towards healthier hearts. In Uganda, doctors continue to warn about rising cases of high blood pressure and diabetes, especially among young people in urban areas. These lifestyle-related conditions are driving up the risk of heart disease.
Dr. John Omagino, Executive Director of the Uganda Heart Institute, has repeatedly stressed that most premature heart diseases can be prevented through simple lifestyle changes. “Regular exercise, avoiding tobacco, reducing salt intake, and going for regular medical check-ups are small steps that can save lives,” he says.
Uganda has also made strides in heart care. The Uganda Heart Institute at Mulago has become a regional center of excellence, carrying out life-saving surgeries and offering specialized treatment for children born with heart defects. However, the cost of care and limited facilities outside Kampala remain barriers for many.
Globally, countries are experimenting with policies to fight heart disease risk factors—from Mexico’s tax on sugary drinks to Denmark’s ban on trans-fats. Locally, experts have called for stronger measures such as regulating junk food, promoting physical activity in schools, and ensuring the availability of affordable medicines for hypertension and cholesterol.
For ordinary Ugandans, World Heart Day is also a reminder to take personal responsibility. A 30-minute walk each day, eating more fruits and vegetables, and managing stress through community and faith-based support can go a long way in protecting the heart.
As the world marks World Heart Day 2025, the message is simple but urgent: every heartbeat matters. For Uganda, protecting the nation’s heart health will require both individual commitment and stronger government action. After all, a healthier heart today means a healthier country tomorrow.
