THIS week, some of Australia's leading heart health charities - Hearts4heart, Heart Support Australia, and Heartbeat of Sport - have united to launch the country's first Cholesterol Awareness Week (11-17 Nov).
The initiative aims to raise awareness of high cholesterol, a condition affecting around 2.1 million Australians and known as the 'silent disease' because it often presents no symptoms.
Left unchecked, high cholesterol can lead to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), which is responsible for up to 85% of related deaths globally due to heart attacks and strokes.
In Australia, ASCVD has been a factor in nearly a quarter of all deaths, with cardiovascular disease costing the healthcare system an estimated $14.3 billion annually.
Cholesterol Awareness Week hopes to empower Australians with knowledge to take proactive steps to manage cholesterol levels, benefiting both individuals and healthcare policy.
"Our understanding of cholesterol is often limited," said Tanya Hall, CEO of Hearts4heart.
"High cholesterol and ASCVD can be managed, and early detection is essential," Hall added.
"We urge all Australians to speak to their doctors and get a heart health check-up."
During this week, free heart screenings will be offered to adults attending the car racing event Vailo Adelaide 500 from 14-17 Nov.
"By bringing heart testing to community events, we're helping people #KnowYourNumbers and make healthier choices," Heartbeat of Sport's founder Andy Paschalidis explained.
Dr Christian Verdicchio, CEO of Heart Support Australia, emphasised the importance of early intervention, stating, "cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death, but many heart conditions can be prevented".
"A simple appointment with your healthcare professional could save your life."
Hearts4heart also recently contributed to the IPEC study, a multinational patient-led research initiative that highlights educational gaps for those living with high cholesterol.
The study showed that many patients feel disconnected from key decisions about their care.
Prof Gemma Figtree, Chair of the Cardiovascular Initiative at the University of Sydney, noted that healthcare providers play a critical role in engaging patients in understanding their cholesterol levels and risk factors.
However, she said high cholesterol is often underestimated by the public and policymakers alike.
"We hope this initiative sparks meaningful discussions to improve outcomes and ensure community-level support for those affected by high cholesterol," Figtree said.
To learn more, CLICK HERE. JG
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