Australians Neglecting Heart Health During the Pandemic

According to a recent survey from the Heart Foundation, as many as 500,000 Aussies with heart disease are skipping check-ups during the pandemic. More than 1 in 4 patients with heart disease or at a high risk of heart disease missed or delayed appointments with their GP between April and August according to the survey. Heart disease remains Australia’s biggest killer, but many people at risk are avoiding appointments because of concerns about COVID-19. People with heart disease may suffer from more severe complications if infected with COVID-19. However, skipping critical check-ups can put people at even greater risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Heart disease does not stop during a pandemic. Never before has it been more important to monitor your heart health and speak with your GP – either in person or via telehealth. The Heart Foundation is urging Australians to not put off heart health check-ups any longer. Speak to your GP or specialist today about your heart health, and make sure you are getting regular blood pressure and cholesterol check-ups. Protect yourself from the biggest killer in Australia this World Heart Day – heart disease.