The world over, World Heart Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of September, every year.

The global theme this year was focused on kids; and World Heart Day 2004 was dedicated to 'Children, Adolescents and Heart Disease'.

"Obesity, poor diet, passive smoking and physical inactivity are the leading causes of heart disease and stroke, and are now being seen at an alarmingly early age," cautions Dr. Jayaranganath, Paediatric Cardiologist at WHHI, Bangalore. It is estimated that more than 22 million children in the world below the age of five are obese; and this could lead to heart problems in the future. Also, children who are regularly exposed to second-hand (passive) smoking suffer from many of the diseases of active smokers, and have a 25% increased risk of developing heart disease.

Vishal Bali of Wockhardt hospital says, "Indians have a high disposition of cardiac disease. Adopting healthy habits in childhood is the best way to prevent heart problems later on in life. Through children, we can encourage the entire family to lead a healthier lifestyle."

Our hospitals held interesting events to create awareness about cardiac health.