World Heart Day: Discover How Persian Medicine Can Transform Your Cardiac Health
Maintaining heart health is essential, and according to Nafiseh Hosseini-Yekta, the director of the health ministry’s Persian medicine office, regular physical activity, nutritious eating, and adequate sleep are crucial factors that contribute to a healthy heart. In this article, we explore the significance of these elements and how they can improve cardiovascular well-being.
On the occasion of World Heart Day, celebrated annually on September 29, Hosseini-Yekta emphasized the importance of exercise in enhancing heart function. She noted that moderate physical activity should be tailored to individual circumstances. For those in good health, engaging in moderate, gradual, and consistent exercises such as:
- Walking
- Light cycling
- Swimming
These activities promote better blood circulation and increased energy levels. A focus on aerobic exercise, including gentle walking and light resistance training (with doctor approval), can significantly improve heart function. The emphasis is on starting slowly to avoid abrupt changes in intensity.
In addition to exercise, the quality of sleep plays a vital role in maintaining heart health. Creating a calm and restful environment that is dark and quiet is essential for promoting cardiac well-being, according to Hosseini-Yekta.
Nutrition is another critical factor in heart health. A heart-healthy diet should include a balanced and varied intake of fresh, natural foods. Key dietary recommendations include:
- Avoiding overeating
- Reducing consumption of heavy, fatty, and processed foods
These measures are essential for preventing heart disease. Hosseini-Yekta also mentioned the role of herbal medicine, urging individuals to seek prescriptions from Persian medicine experts to avoid potential side effects and drug interactions.
It’s important to note that Persian medicine aims to enhance health and prevent illness. However, if symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat arise, seeking immediate medical attention from a cardiologist is crucial for specialized treatment.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) encompass a range of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels, including:
- Coronary heart disease
- Cerebrovascular disease
- Rheumatic heart disease
Statistics reveal that over three-quarters of CVD-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries. In Iran, CVDs, particularly heart attacks, account for approximately 40 percent of annual deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a staggering 180 percent increase in CVD cases in Iran over the past 35 years. However, there has been a 30 percent decrease in the current prevalence and incidence rates of these diseases, along with a 40 percent decline in death rates and a 45 percent reduction in disability-adjusted life years.
Several risk factors contribute to cardiovascular diseases, including:
- High blood pressure
- Low physical activity
- Unhealthy diet
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
Individuals aged 30 and above are recommended to visit health centers for assessments of potential high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. Based on age, family history, and weight, a personalized care plan lasting three months, six months, or one year will be developed for those who seek help. This initiative aims to detect diseases early or manage risk factors effectively.
Alarmingly, one in five individuals may face premature death due to cardiovascular disease, which surpasses the combined mortality rates of cancer and chronic respiratory diseases. However, it’s noteworthy that approximately 80 percent of heart disease and stroke cases are preventable through accessible healthcare, early screenings, and promoting healthy lifestyle choices in nutrition and physical activity.
This is why World Heart Day is celebrated every September 29, raising awareness about cardiovascular diseases and the significance of heart care. The theme for World Heart Day 2025 is ‘Don’t Miss a Beat’, highlighting the precious time lost due to early deaths from CVD.
Persian medicine, with its rich historical background, emphasizes health maintenance and disease prevention. Rooted in the teachings of ancient scholars like Rhazes and Avicenna, it focuses on the balance of four bodily humors: phlegm (Balgham), blood (Dam), yellow bile (Safra’), and black bile (Sauda’). Surveys indicate that over 80 percent of the population is interested in utilizing Iranian traditional medicine, and this interest continues to thrive.
In fact, traditional medicine is now taught in universities, reflecting its deep roots in Iranian culture and traditions. With more than 500 graduates in the field and numerous research contributions, Iran ranks fourth globally in traditional medicine science production, following China, India, and the United States.
Both traditional and conventional medicine can complement each other, drawing on their unique strengths to enhance healthcare outcomes. By prioritizing heart health through exercise, nutrition, and proper sleep, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of cardiovascular diseases.
