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On October 4, 2024, the Uganda Heart Institute (UHI) and Mubende Referral Hospital hosted the World Heart Day celebrations in Mubende District. The event focused on raising awareness of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and promoting preventive heart health measures. Activities included a Heart Health Walk, tree planting, and free heart screenings, all aimed at fostering community engagement and education around heart health. A total of 1,374 community members attended the event.
Guest of Honor: The event was graced by the Hon. Prime Minister of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Robinnah Nabbanja, who delivered an inspiring keynote address emphasizing the importance of heart health in Uganda. She commended the efforts of UHI, Mubende Referral Hospital, and all partners for their dedication to improving cardiovascular health across the country.
Special Guests: In attendance were esteemed members of the UHI Board of Directors, local government officials, healthcare professionals, and community leaders, all showing strong support for heart health initiatives and the significance of World Heart Day.
On October 4, 2024, the Uganda Heart Institute (UHI) and Mubende Referral Hospital (MRRH)v hosted the World Heart Day 2024 celebrations in Mubende District, highlighting the importance of heart health and prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The event featured a variety of activities, including a Heart Health Walk, tree planting, and free heart screenings, all designed to engage the community and spread awareness about heart health.
With a strong turnout of over 1,300 community members, the day's events highlighted a collective commitment to heart health education and preventive measures in the ongoing fight to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease.
Guest of Honor: The event was honored by the presence of Uganda’s Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinnah Nabbanja, who delivered an inspiring keynote address underscoring the critical importance of heart health in Uganda. She applauded the Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), Mubende Referral Hospital, and all partners for their commitment to advancing heart health nationwide.
Special Guests: The event was also attended by members of the UHI and MRRH Board of Directors, Staff of UHI and MRRH, local government officials, healthcare professionals, church and community leaders, and residents from neighboring villages. Their collective presence highlighted strong support for heart health initiatives and echoed the significance of this year’s World Heart Day theme, “Use Heart for Action”.
In a powerful demonstration of UHI’s commitment to both sustainability and heart health, a tree-planting ceremony took place in Mubende District during the World Heart Day celebrations just before the walk. Special thanks to a generous donation from the National Forestry Authority, over 1,000 native trees were provided in support of UHI’s “Go Green” campaign, which highlights the close relationship between a healthy environment and heart health.
Green spaces and abundant tree cover contribute significantly to reducing cardiovascular risk factors by improving air quality, reducing stress, and encouraging physical activity, all of which are crucial for heart health. Trees planted around Mubende Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH), as well as those distributed to local schools, workplaces, and community members, help create a healthier environment conducive to long-term cardiovascular wellness. This initiative perfectly aligned with the World Heart Day theme, “Use Heart for Action”.
The event kicked off with an energetic 6km Heart Health Walk, led by the Mubende Coated Music Academy Youth Band and a group of Bodaboda riders proudly sporting reflector jackets with the World Heart Day theme. The walk began at Mubende Regional Referral Hospital and concluded at Kasaana Playground.
Participants of all ages joined, emphasizing the importance of physical activity in sustaining a healthy heart. Along the route, walkers distributed heart health literature to bystanders and community members, sharing accessible, life-saving information on cardiovascular wellness. This initiative served as a powerful reminder that everyone, through awareness and action, plays a role in combating heart disease and promoting a healthier, more informed community.
Hundreds of community members took part in free heart screenings provided by the Uganda
Heart Institute staff. The screening event drew long lines as early as 6:00 AM, showcasing the community’s commitment to heart health. Participants underwent comprehensive assessments, including blood pressure, oxygen saturation, heart rate, blood sugar levels, lipid profiles, and Body Mass Index (BMI), among others.
In addition to the screenings, attendees received free cardiac consultations, nutritional education on heart health, and medication dispensation. This initiative not only facilitated the early detection of potential heart health issues but also provided essential guidance on the prevention and management of heart disease. By the end of the day, over 1,300 individuals had been screened, marking a significant stride in promoting heart health awareness and empowering the community with vital information for healthier living.
Comprehensive Free Heart Screening: A standout achievement of the event was the provision of free heart screenings for community members, allowing over 1,300 individuals to know their heart health numbers for the first time. Attendees received their heart health assessments, enabling early detection of potential health issues. This initiative not only empowered participants with vital information about their heart health but also emphasized the importance of regular health check-ups in preventing heart disease. #KworYourNumbers
Enhanced Awareness: The event significantly raised public awareness about heart health,
highlighting the risks associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and the critical importance of early detection and preventive measures. Educational materials were distributed throughout the day, equipping attendees with essential knowledge to better manage their heart health.
Strong Community Engagement: The impressive turnout for the heart screenings and the Heart Health Walk showcased the community’s enthusiasm and commitment to enhancing heart health. With over 1,300 participants actively involved, this engagement reflects a collective desire to prioritize cardiovascular wellness and adopt healthier lifestyles.
Collaborative Impact: The presence of esteemed guests, including the Hon. Prime Minister, alongside UHI / Mubende RRH Staff , and various stakeholders, highlighted the power of collaboration in tackling Uganda’s heart health challenges. This united front not only amplifies the message of heart health awareness but also strengthens community ties in the fight against cardiovascular diseases.Collaborative Impact: The presence of esteemed guests, including the Hon. Prime Minister, alongside UHI / Mubende RRH Staff , and various stakeholders, highlighted the power of collaboration in tackling Uganda’s heart health challenges. This united front not only amplifies the message of heart health awareness but also strengthens community ties in the fight against cardiovascular diseases.
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