Early results of a unique study on COVID-19 and heart disease were presented at this month's ESC Congress by Professor Karen Sliwa. The study will help narrow the knowledge gap about disease progression and the medical and social burden in particularly hard-hit areas, in order to strengthen clinical practice and decision-making. Of the expected 5 000 patients who will be involved in the study, more than 4 800 have been recruited so far from 38 sites in 24 countries.

WHF is proud to once again represent the global cardiovascular community at the annual WHO Regional Committee Meetings. The first of these, which took place from 24-26 August 2021 in a virtual format, provided a platform for Ministries of Health across the AFRO Region to discuss the most pressing issues on their public health agenda. Advocacy Committee Member Prof Pamela Naidoo, CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of South Africa, delivered a statement on behalf of WHF.

More than 4,000 patients from at least 23 countries are now participating in the global WHF COVID-19 Study. Around 79 per cent come from Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia. Analysis based on the first half of patients was presented at this month's ESC Congress. The study is dedicated to better understanding COVID-19 and heart disease, and the ongoing findings are expected to aid its management and guide health policy in less resourced areas and beyond.          

The theme for the 4th Global Week for Action on NCDs will focus on people and participation to accelerate progress on NCDs. This year’s campaign from 6-12 September 2021 will unite the NCD movement and beyond to help bridge the gap on community engagement. Have a look at the latest campaign resources, ideas for activities to help you plan ahead and the new Act on NCDs campaign logo, brand guidelines and social media banners. 

The World Obesity Federation and World Heart Federation will convene the next SCOPE School Global on 27-28 October 2021 on the topic of obesity and Cardiovascular disease (CVD). With a focus on global health problems, specialists in the obesity and cardiological fields will discuss effective treatment solutions, the obesity paradox and the importance of recognising and supporting patients with obesity and CVD in long-term lifestyle changes.

Mark Nicholls speaks to Prof. Dorairaj Prabhakaran, Vice President (Research and Policy) at the Public Health Foundation of India, Executive Director of the Centre for Chronic Disease Control in New Delhi, and Professor (NCD Epidemiology) at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, about his career, research and interests.

With rising rates of obesity and CVD worldwide, and global and national health systems shifting following COVID, acting on obesity has never been more important. For these reasons, WHF has made “Time to Act on Obesity” the theme of the 2021 World Heart Summit.

Observed every year on 17 September, World Patient Safety Day calls for global solidarity and concerted action by all countries and international partners to improve patient safety. The Day brings together patients, families, caregivers, communities, health workers, health care leaders and policy-makers to show their commitment to patient safety.

Harnessing the power of digital health to improve awareness, prevention and management of CVD globally is our goal for Word Heart Day, 29 September. Use Heart to Connect is about using your knowledge, compassion and influence to make sure you, your loved ones and the communities you’re part of have the best chance to live heart-healthy lives.