HEALTH & WELL-BEING

The Heart of the Matter

Health with Dr. Donald Greig

Author/ Being Neighbourly
1 September 2025

As September unfolds, it’s time to focus on heart awareness and the importance of maintaining cardiovascular health. Heart disease continues to be a leading cause of death globally, making it essential to understand risk factors, gender and ethnic differences, and proactive measures we can take to promote heart health.

Understanding Risk Factors

As we embrace September, prioritizing heart awareness is essential for our overall well-being. By understanding risk factors and recognizing differences in how heart health affects various demographics, we can take proactive steps to protect our cardiovascular health. Through individual commitment and community initiatives, we can foster a healthier, heart-aware society. Remember, your heart health is a priority—take action today for a healthier tomorrow!

Gender and Ethnic Differences

Recognizing how heart disease affects different genders and ethnic groups is crucial for effective prevention. Women often experience different symptoms than men, such as fatigue or shortness of breath, rather than the classic chest pain. This can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing the need for increased awareness among both healthcare providers and patients.

Ethnic differences also play a significant role. For example, specific communities may have higher rates of diabetes and hypertension, contributing to increased heart disease risk. In a diverse city like Hong Kong, public health initiatives must be tailored to address these varying risks effectively.

What You Can Do

As an individual, there are several proactive steps you can take to lower your risk of heart disease:

Regular Check-Ups: Schedule routine visits with your healthcare provider to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall heart health.

Heart-Healthy Diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit saturated fats, sugars, and sodium to promote cardiovascular health.

Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week. Activities like walking, cycling, and swimming can significantly improve your heart health.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Keeping a healthy weight reduces the risk of heart disease and related conditions.

Manage Stress: Chronic stress can adversely affect heart health. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing into your daily routine.

Strategies for Intervention

Community-wide interventions are vital for promoting heart health. Effective strategies include:

Public Education Campaigns: Raise awareness about heart disease risks and preventive measures through workshops, seminars, and health fairs.

Access to Healthcare: Ensure that healthcare services are accessible, especially in underserved communities. Regular screenings can help identify risk factors early.

Support Groups: Establish support networks for individuals at risk of heart disease, offering resources and encouragement for lifestyle changes.

Cultural Competence in Healthcare: Healthcare providers should receive training in cultural competence to better understand and address the unique needs of diverse ethnic groups.

About the Author

Dr. Donald Greig

Dr. Greig is a general surgeon with 26 years of experience in Hong Kong. He contributes to scientific literature, publishes weekly patient newsletters and serves as a well-being educator and communicator, collaborating with prominent institutions and companies.

www.thenewclinic.info