Today i.e. 29th September is celebrated as World Heart Day across the world. World Heart Day serves as a global reminder of the importance of heart health and the need to take proactive measures against cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Launched by the World Heart Federation (WHF) in 2000, the day, celebrated on 29 September, aims to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke, which remain the leading causes of death worldwide, causing approximately 17.9 million people lose their lives. World Health Organization (WHO).
According to the American Heart Association, heart disease costs working people $749 billion per year in medical costs and lost productivity. By creating a healthy workplace culture, employees can reduce this burden. Simple steps like opting for a healthy breakfast, getting exercise, and trying to manage stress can make a significant impact.
10 tips to keep your heart healthy at work
Integrate heart health into company culture
Encourage healthy habits like nutritious food, regular exercise and less smoking. Provide heart-healthy snacks and educate employees about heart disease risks and prevention.
Encourage regular health checkups
Remind employees to get regular checkups to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels. Implement flexible scheduling to ensure time for medical appointments.
Provide mental health support
Stress and anxiety can have a negative impact on heart health. Provide mental health resources, foster a supportive workplace, and train managers to recognize and address stress.
promote physical activity
Encourage mobility throughout the workday with walking meetings, exercise breaks and fitness challenges. Provide access to gym memberships or virtual workout sessions.
Provide healthy food options
Replace sugary and fatty snacks in the break room with fruits, nuts and whole grains.
reduce sedentary behavior
Install standing desks or suggest hourly movement breaks to reduce prolonged sitting, which has been linked to heart disease.
Promote smoke-free environment
Provide smoking cessation programs and support for employees attempting to quit smoking, as smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease.
Promote work-life balance
Encourage balance between work and personal life to reduce stress. Offer flexible work hours and remote work options.
Encourage heart-healthy challenges
Create company-wide fitness challenges or wellness programs that promote heart health through team-building exercises and activities.
Educate about heart health benefits
Regularly update employees on heart health resources, such as insurance-covered screenings or wellness programs, and the long-term benefits of a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Image Credit: Prabha_Sakshi.