hearts4heart, a leading charity dedicated to raising awareness and support for heart failure, unveiled an Australian-first resource today at Parliament House.
The launch of “Understanding Heart Failure: A Practical Guide for all Australians” marks another milestone for the leading charity in the fight against heart failure, a condition that affects up to half a million Australians and ranks as a leading cause of death in the country.
Heart failure, often overlooked in comparison to other common diseases, is responsible for eight lives lost every day and is the primary cause of hospitalization for Australians over the age of 65.
“Today’s event was held to increase awareness, initiate a national conversation, and drive urgent action to address this pressing concern,” said Tanya Hall, CEO and founder of hearts4heart.
“The launch of the “Understanding Heart Failure” guide represents a crucial step towards improving outcomes for those affected by heart failure. It serves as a powerful resource for individuals living with heart failure, providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to actively manage their condition and enhance their quality of life,” Ms Hall said.
The event included distinguished guests including Maria Vamvakinou, MP, and Wendy Askew, Co-Chairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Heart & Stroke Foundations, who emphasised the significance of the event and the need for heightened awareness of heart failure.
“Today, we gather to launch ‘Understanding Heart Failure: A Practical Guide for all Australians.’ This comprehensive resource empowers individuals living with heart failure, providing vital information, bridging knowledge gaps, and enabling better management of this condition,” Senator Askew said.
The guide features personal stories, including that of Katrina Tenne, a heart failure patient who initially underestimated her risk.
“Heart disease is all around us, but we don’t think it will actually happen to us. Speak to your GP about your symptoms,” said Ms Tenne, who urged individuals to prioritise their heart health and seek support when needed.
Ms Tenne was followed by cardiologist and author, Dr. Warrick Bishop, who emphasised the need for early diagnosis and intervention.
“By creating awareness, promoting early detection, and empowering individuals to take control of their health, we can make a significant difference. The ‘Understanding Heart Failure’ guide equips patients, caregivers, and clinicians with valuable knowledge and resources to tackle heart failure head-on.”
