Every year, 29 September is dedicated to the human heart.

Twenty years ago, World Heart Day was established by the World Heart Federation (WHF), an association of cardiological societies and heart foundations from more than 100 countries, in cooperation with the World Health Organisation (WHO). On this day, the focus is on heart health, and campaigns are organised to raise awareness of what individual people can do to prevent risks of cardiovascular disease and strokes.

A large number of events and campaigns are intended to make people aware that almost 80 per cent of deaths from heart attacks and strokes could be prevented with a heart-healthy lifestyle.

In 2020, the slogan 'Use Heart' will focus on what individuals can do to prevent the risks of cardiovascular disease and strokes.

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According to the WHF, over 17 million people worldwide die each year from cardiovascular diseases. Sudden cardiac death is particularly alarming and every year, in Germany alone, it affects around 65,000 apparently healthy young and old people. In takes the form of a rapid and unexpected cardiac arrest, which is preceded by severe cardiac arrhythmia, a so-called ventricular fibrillation.

Many of these deaths could be prevented if help could be quickly provided at the scene. According to the WHF, about 80 per cent of these deaths could be avoided through leading a healthy lifestyle.

Following the tragic death of Cameroonian footballer Marc-Vivien Foe, who collapsed on the pitch without any outside influence during the FIFA Confederations Cup 2003 and died shortly afterwards, FIFA launched various initiatives to prevent and raise awareness of sudden cardiac arrest among footballers. In 2006, it introduced the pre-competition medical examination (PCMA) to detect cardiovascular abnormalities at an early stage

FIFA also offers medical seminars at FIFA tournaments, among others, to provide training on sudden cardiac arrest for referees, sports scientists, players and FIFA employees. In 2016, FIFA launched the FIFA Diploma in Football Medicine. This free online course allows professionals to exchange ideas, learn, research and engage in prevention. Sudden cardiac arrest and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) each have their own dedicated module.

In 2018, FIFA began a campaign to raise awareness of sudden cardiac arrest by using posters, presentations and seminars. Through football, FIFA is raising awareness of this important issue and helping to save lives on and off the pitch.

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Raising awareness on World Heart Day - FIFA.com