In anticipation of World Heart Day on September 29, International SOS has called on organisations to take proactive steps to protect their workforce from cardiovascular disease (CVD). As CVDs remain the leading cause of death and disability globally, with 17.9 million deaths annually, the need for workplace initiatives aimed at preventing heart disease has never been more critical.
According to data from the World Health Organization, heart attacks and strokes are the primary contributors to these alarming numbers. Moreover, over half a billion people globally suffer from CVDs, making it essential for organisations to adopt preventative strategies that promote heart health among employees.
From 2021 to 2023, International SOS experienced a significant increase in cardiovascular health-related requests for assistance. Cases rose by 34.5 per cent from 2021 to 2022, followed by an additional 18 per cent increase in 2023. Notably, 86 per cent of heart-related cases involved male employees during this period, indicating the urgent need for organisations to provide comprehensive cardiovascular health support.
CVD risks can stem from a variety of factors. Some, such as lifestyle choices, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption, are controllable. Others, like genetics, gender, and race, are beyond individual control. Medical conditions such as diabetes and obesity further heighten the risk of developing heart disease.
Dr. Vikram Vora, Medical Director of International SOS for the Indian Subcontinent, addressed the pressing need for proactive health measures in the workplace. "The current global environment, marked by volatility, complexity, and uncertainty, has had a profound impact on human health, particularly in workplaces," said Dr. Vora. "Stress, long working hours, and sedentary lifestyles are contributing to a rise in cardiovascular issues. Organisations have a Duty of Care to ensure their employees’ well-being, and World Heart Day should act as a wake-up call to implement heart-health initiatives."
He further highlighted the economic implications of heart disease for employers, from the rising costs of health interventions and insurance premiums to the indirect costs of absenteeism and presenteeism.
To mitigate cardiovascular risks among employees, International SOS recommends that organisations implement comprehensive wellness programs. These should include regular health screenings, fitness initiatives, and educational workshops on healthy living. Encouraging employees to adopt heart-healthy habits not only reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke but also enhances overall productivity and reduces healthcare costs.
“In the long run, investing in employee health contributes to a more sustainable and productive workforce,” added Dr. Vora.
Seven Key Measures to Promote Heart Health in the Workplace
International SOS advises companies to take the following seven steps to foster a heart-healthy work environment:
Create a Heart-Healthy Culture: Encourage employees to take breaks, stay hydrated, and seek medical advice when needed. A supportive environment fosters healthy habits.
Encourage Regular Health Screenings: Offer screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and other cardiovascular risk factors to facilitate early detection and management.
Healthy Eating Initiatives: Provide nutritious food options at work and educate employees on the importance of a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Promote Regular Physical Activity: Implement wellness programs and provide facilities to encourage regular exercise among employees.
Stress Management Programs: Offer resources to help employees manage stress, a significant risk factor for CVDs.
Education and Awareness Campaigns: Organise workshops to educate employees about cardiovascular health and the importance of maintaining a healthy heart.
Smoking Cessation Support: Provide resources for employees seeking to quit smoking, a leading cause of cardiovascular disease.
In addition, International SOS is hosting a webinar titled “Building a Heart-Healthy Work Environment” on September 26, 2024, where experts will discuss strategies for CVD prevention and response plans for workplaces.
By implementing these measures, organisations can protect their employees and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, contributing to a healthier and more productive workforce.
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