World Heart Day 2026 Highlights Heart Disease Warning Signs

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - World Heart Day is commemorated every September 29 to raise public awareness of cardiovascular disease and the importance of maintaining heart health.

In 2026, the World Heart Federation (WHF) is highlighting the theme “Don’t Miss a Beat”. The theme emphasizes the importance of recognizing signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease, which can sometimes go unnoticed until the condition becomes more serious.

This year's campaign focuses on three key areas: recognizing the signs of cardiovascular disease, protecting heart health, and encouraging stronger action against heart disease.

The WHF is also encouraging people to make changes in their daily lives to support heart health. These include staying physically active and adopting healthy lifestyle habits that can help protect the heart.

World Heart Day was initiated by the World Heart Federation together with a network of global health organizations and the World Health Organization (WHO). According to the WHF's official history, as cited by RRI.co.id, discussions on establishing a special day to raise awareness of heart health began in the late 1990s.

The first World Heart Day was observed on September 24, 2000. Initially, it was held on the last Sunday of September before September 29 was established as the fixed date starting in 2011.

Since then, World Heart Day has grown into a global campaign involving health organizations, communities, governments, and people in countries around the world.

Through the “Don’t Miss a Beat” theme, World Heart Day 2026 reminds people not to overlook their heart health. Awareness of cardiovascular disease risk factors and warning signs is an important part of protecting heart health through everyday habits.