Don’t miss a beat: Know the signs of Cardiovascular Disease

Did you know 1 in 5 people globally will die prematurely from heart disease?

This shocking statistic was shared by the World Heart Federation in marking World Heart Day. The 2026 theme focuses on raising awareness of the world’s number one killer and highlighting the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD).

At Luton Hospital, cardiovascular health is part of a wider commitment to helping patients identify health concerns early, understand their individual risk and access appropriate medical care when they need it.

Cardiovascular disease can develop quietly. High blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood sugar may have few or no obvious symptoms, while a heart attack or stroke can sometimes be the first visible sign that something is wrong. That is why looking after your heart starts with two simple steps:

1.     Knowing your risk & the signs

Some cardiovascular risk factors cannot be changed. Your age and family history, for example, can influence your risk. Others can be identified and managed. These include:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes or raised blood sugar
• Overweight and obesity
• Physical inactivity
• Tobacco use
• Unhealthy diet
• Harmful alcohol use
• Stress
• Air pollution

The more risk factors a person has, the greater their likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease. Regular health checks can help identify some of these risks before they become a serious problem.

2.    Knowing your numbers

Sometimes, one of the most important things you can do for your heart is simply to check it. Knowing your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels can provide valuable information about your cardiovascular risk. High blood pressure, in particular, often has no symptoms, making regular checks important.

Don't ignore the warning signs

Heart attack and stroke are medical emergencies. Recognizing the signs and seeking care quickly can make a critical difference.

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience symptoms such as:

·       Chest pain, pressure or tightness

·       Shortness of breath

·       Pain or discomfort spreading to the arm, shoulder, back, neck or jaw

·       Sudden weakness or numbness, particularly on one side of the body

·       Sudden difficulty speaking, seeing, walking or maintaining balance

·       Severe unexplained headache, dizziness or fainting.

Prevention starts before the warning

At Luton Hospital, prevention is part of the conversation. We acknowledge that good health is not only about treating illness when it appears. It is also about helping people understand the everyday choices that can influence their health.

Heart health isn't only about responding to emergencies. It is also about the everyday choices that help reduce risk such as being physically active, eating a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco, limiting harmful alcohol use and managing conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol with appropriate medical guidance.

Because sometimes, the most important heart-healthy decision is the one you make before your heart gives you a reason to worry.

Know the signs. Know your numbers. Know your risk.

If you experience symptoms that may indicate a heart attack or stroke, seek emergency medical care immediately.