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World Heart Day, 29 September 2024, Cardiovascular Health Risks: Proactive Measures for Workplace Wellness
World Heart Day, 29 September 2024, Cardiovascular Health Risks: Proactive Measures for Workplace Wellness
HO CHINH MIN CITY, VIETNAM, September 27, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ — As World Heart Day approaches on 29 September, International SOS urges organisations worldwide to implement proactive measures to protect their workforce from cardiovascular disease (CVD).
According to the World Health Organization, CVDs remain the leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide, accounting for 17.9 million fatalities annually, primarily from heart attacks and strokes. With over half a billion people affected globally, organisations must adopt strategies that promote heart health and prevent related illnesses among employees.
The Rising Concerns of Cardiovascular Health
From 2021 to 2023, International SOS experienced a significant rise in requests for assistance related to cardiovascular health issues. The number of cases surged by 34.5% from 2021 to 2022 and an additional 18% from 2022 to 2023. This data highlights the growing need for comprehensive cardiovascular health support.
Notably, 86% of the requests involving heart-specific ailments occurred among the male population during the aforementioned period. The risk of developing cardiovascular disease depends on various factors, which encompass controllable elements like lifestyle choices, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption, alongside uncontrollable factors such as genetics, gender, and race.
Understanding the Risks
Several medical conditions, including diabetes and obesity, can elevate the risk of heart disease among individuals. Dr. Olivier LO, Group Medical Director of Occupational Health Services at International SOS, emphasizes the responsibility of organisations worldwide.
“Organisations have a Duty of Care to promote work environments that enhance the heart health of employees. This effort can significantly prevent cardiovascular disease,” Dr. LO asserts. With World Heart Day imminent, it is a timely reminder of the importance of heart health initiatives in the workplace.
Financial Implications of Heart Disease
Heart disease can have a substantial financial impact on employers through direct costs like healthcare services and medications. Indirect costs include absenteeism and presenteeism, compounded by expenses for hiring temporary staff or overtime pay.
Proactively addressing cardiovascular health can help organisations mitigate these risks effectively. By implementing comprehensive health and wellness programmes, including health screenings, fitness initiatives, and educational workshops, organisations can significantly improve heart health among their workforce.
Practical Measures for Employee Health
International SOS recommends seven key measures to help organisations mitigate cardiovascular risks effectively. First, organisations should create a heart-healthy culture that prioritises health and wellbeing.
Encouraging employees to take breaks, stay hydrated, and seek medical advice fosters a supportive environment that motivates healthy habits. Second, regular health screenings should be offered for blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other cardiovascular risk factors.
Early detection and management of these risk factors can prevent the development of severe conditions. Third, organisations should implement healthy eating initiatives by providing access to nutritious food options.
Promoting Wellness and Education
Educating employees about maintaining a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is critical. Fourth, organisations must promote regular physical activity through workplace wellness programmes and facilities that encourage movement.
Fifth, organisations should implement stress management programmes that provide resources to help employees manage stress, a significant risk factor for CVD. Sixth, education and awareness campaigns should be organised to raise awareness about cardiovascular health.
Workshops on the importance of maintaining a healthy heart and steps for risk reduction are effective. Lastly, organisations should offer smoking cessation support, as tobacco use substantially contributes to cardiovascular disease globally.
Join International SOS’ webinar ‘Building Heart-Healthy Work Environment’ on 26 September 2024. Experts will discuss vital cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention strategies and response plans to avoid fatalities among employees.
Saiful
TQPR Malaysia
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