Media release: 16 September 2024
Around 500 people in the ACT die from cardiovascular disease each year, accounting for one in five deaths in the territory.
Cardiovascular disease is also one of the most expensive chronic health conditions, costing $260 million in the ACT per annum. Yet, many cases are largely preventable.
Recent estimates show that as much as 38 per cent of the chronic disease burden in Australia could be avoided if modifiable risk factors are reduced throughout the country.
To combat these issues, the Heart Foundation has proposed a comprehensive strategy focusing on prevention and management of cardiovascular disease in the ACT including the critical need to increase the uptake of Heart Health Checks, as well as reducing deaths from out-of-hospital cardiac arrests.
This action will:
This action will:
These AED initiatives would be delivered through the current partnership between the Heart Foundation and Heart of the Nation.
Investment in these life-saving initiatives will improve the heart health of people in the ACT.
“It has never been more important to take practical steps to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease on both the people and the economy of the ACT. Armed with effective strategies and proven interventions, the time for the government to act is now.
Without action now to address modifiable risk factors through encouraging Canberrans to visit their GP for a Medicare subsidised Heart Health Check, I worry that we will see the number of people with cardiovascular disease continue to rise.
Lauren Ford, ACT General Manager
Heart Foundation
“The Heart Foundation calls on all candidates and parties contesting the ACT election to act and adopt these strategic actions to help save lives.”
“Out-of-hospital cardiac arrests are a significant public health issue, and survival rates remain low.
Ensuring people can access an AED when they need it and have the confidence to use one in an emergency will save lives in the ACT."
Greg Page, CEO
Heart of the Nation
The Heart Foundation welcomes the Australian Government’s decision to ban the use of genetic test results in life insurance underwriting.
Every day in each state and territory, we are lobbying government and industry to improve heart health.
The Heart Foundation is calling on political leaders to prioritise heart health in the upcoming Northern Territory Election.
Last updated16 September 2024