World Heart Day 2026 (Ethiopian Calendar 2018 E.C.) was celebrated under the global theme "Every Heartbeat Matters!" This marks the 25th anniversary of World Heart Day globally. In Tigray, although the annual celebration was interrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic and the war, it had previously been observed continuously for 10 years since 2008 E.C.
This year's celebration was organized by Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital and the College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University. Activities began on Meskerem 24, 2018 E.C. at Romanat Square and included:
- Public awareness and health education campaigns.
- Free blood pressure (BP) screening.
- Free random blood sugar (RBS) testing.
- Body Mass Index (BMI) measurement.
- Abdominal circumference measurement.
- Blood donation services.
The program continued on Sunday, Meskerem 25, 2018 E.C., with a marching band leading participants on a walk from Romanat Square to Ayder Hospital to promote heart health awareness.
Health Bureau Calls for Greater Public Awareness
Representing the Tigray Regional Health Bureau, Dr. Harnet Adane stated that Ayder Hospital and the College of Health Sciences have played a significant role in raising public awareness about health. She praised the free screening campaign and awareness activities focused on preventing heart and blood vessel diseases. She also encouraged other health institutions to undertake similar initiatives and affirmed that the Regional Health Bureau would continue collaborating with partners in future health promotion activities.
Mekelle University Reaffirms Commitment
Professor Haftu Berhe, Academic and Research Director of the College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, noted that cardiovascular diseases remain one of the world's most neglected health problems, despite being a leading cause of illness and death.
He explained that while vehicles undergo routine annual safety inspections, many people neglect regular medical checkups. He stressed the importance of periodic health examinations and pledged that the university would continue expanding its services to benefit the community.
Tigray Heart Association Highlights Community Participation
Speaking on behalf of the Tigray Heart Association, Association President Dr. Tsehaye Asmelash explained that the association is working toward becoming a member of the World Heart Federation while implementing programs to increase heart health awareness.
He emphasized that such efforts cannot succeed through the association's members alone and require active community participation. He also expressed appreciation to everyone working to strengthen and establish the association.
Heart Specialist Discusses Causes and Prevention
Cardiologist Dr. Abrha Hailu delivered a detailed presentation on:
- The causes of heart disease.
- The purpose of World Heart Day.
- Cardiac services available at Ayder Hospital.
He explained that heart disease can result from several conditions, including:
- Untreated bacterial throat infections.
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Other related health conditions.
He emphasized that many heart diseases can be effectively treated if detected early.
Dr. Abrha further noted that cardiovascular diseases account for approximately 35% of deaths caused by non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Preventing heart disease begins with identifying and managing its risk factors.
He highlighted that, in Ethiopia, one of the leading and preventable causes of heart disease is rheumatic heart disease, which develops after untreated streptococcal throat infections (tonsillitis/strep throat). Because these throat infections can be easily treated with timely antibiotics, many cases of rheumatic heart disease can be prevented.
He concluded by thanking everyone who contributed to the successful organization of the event.
Free Health Screening Results
According to a report presented by Dr. Mohammed Awel Mohammedngus, Biostatistician at the institution, 171 people received free health screening at Romanat Square on Meskerem 24, 2018 E.C.
The screening identified new cases of diabetes and high blood pressure among participants who had previously been unaware of their condition.
Key Heart Health Messages
During the event, participants were reminded that although some risk factors such as age and genetics cannot be changed, many cardiovascular diseases can be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices, including:
- Eating a healthy, balanced diet.
- Engaging in regular physical activity.
- Reducing alcohol consumption.
- Maintaining a healthy body weight.
- Avoiding tobacco use.
- Undergoing regular health checkups.
- Seeking early diagnosis and treatment when health problems arise.
The event concluded with a strong message that most heart diseases are preventable, and that increasing public awareness, adopting healthy lifestyles, and receiving timely medical care can significantly reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease in the community.
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