One Heart

Every year, 17.1 million lives are claimed by the global burden of cardiovascular disease, with 82 per cent of deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. This excessive number of deaths is particularly saddening, since through steps such as eating a healthy diet, regular physical activity and avoiding tobacco, the majority of these deaths could be prevented. 

However, not all heart events are preventable.  It is therefore important to know what action to take should a heart attack or ischaemic stroke, occur in the home.  If you suspect a family member of having a heart attack or stroke, seek medical help immediately.
Over 70 per cent of all cardiac and breathing emergencies occur in the home when a family member is present and available to help a victim.


Learn the signs and symptoms of a heart attack or stroke

• Chest discomfort, including squeezing or pain in the centre of the chest between the breasts or behind the breastbone
• Discomfort and/or pain spreading to other areas of the upper body such as one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach
• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort

Other signs include: unexplained weakness or fatigue, anxiety or unusual nervousness, indigestion or gas-like pain, breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, vomiting, light-headedness and collapse

• Sudden weakness of the face, arm, or leg, most often on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

If experiencing any of these signs, which could come and go, call your emergency services/ambulance immediately.  If there is no emergency response number, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

CVD risk factors include:

• High blood pressure
• Being overweight
• High blood cholesterol
• Tobacco use
• Lack of physical activity
• Presence of diabetes