In South East Asia, Heart Disease Becomes a Growing Health Emergency
In South East Asia, heart disease has emerged as one of the most pressing public health concerns of the decade. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) now claim the lives of eight people every single minute across the region, making them the leading cause of death. What’s more concerning is that nearly half of these deaths are premature, occurring in people below the age of 70. As World Heart Day is observed on September 29 with the theme “Don’t Miss a Beat,” the message is clear: urgent action is needed to prevent a crisis from deepening.
In South East Asia, Lifestyle Risks Fuel a Silent Epidemic
The growing burden of heart disease in South East Asia is closely linked to changing lifestyles, urbanisation, and poor health habits. Experts warn that hypertension, diabetes, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, high-salt and high-fat diets, and lack of physical activity are the biggest drivers of CVDs. Alarmingly, about 85% of people with hypertension and diabetes in the region do not have their conditions under control, significantly increasing their risk of heart attacks and strokes. This combination of unmanaged chronic conditions and unhealthy daily habits is pushing heart disease numbers to new highs.
Adding to the challenge is the rapid ageing of populations and increasing urbanisation. More people are moving to cities, adopting sedentary lifestyles, and consuming processed foods. These trends, when combined with insufficient access to healthcare, are overwhelming public health systems that are already under significant pressure.
In South East Asia, Governments Are Acting But Gaps Remain
In recent years, countries in South East Asia have started taking steps to address this escalating crisis. Policy measures, awareness campaigns, and clinical programs have shown encouraging signs of progress. As of mid-2025, public health systems across the region are providing structured care for over 90 million people living with hypertension and diabetes. Such efforts are crucial in preventing complications and reducing premature deaths.
However, significant gaps still persist. Experts highlight that weak enforcement of existing policies, insufficient fiscal and regulatory actions, and poor monitoring of marketing and packaging of unhealthy products continue to slow down progress. Moreover, the lack of widespread screening programs and inadequate public awareness mean that many individuals remain unaware of their risks until it’s too late.
In South East Asia, Prevention Holds the Key to a Healthier Future
While healthcare systems work to manage existing cases, experts stress that prevention must become a central focus. On an individual level, lifestyle changes such as quitting tobacco, cutting down on salt, incorporating regular physical activity, eating balanced meals, and managing stress are essential steps toward maintaining heart health. Early detection through routine check-ups and blood pressure monitoring can also save lives.
Governments, too, have a vital role to play. Policies aimed at reducing salt consumption, eliminating industrially produced trans fats, enforcing strong tobacco control laws, and promoting healthier food environments can significantly reduce the prevalence of CVDs. Collaborative action involving governments, healthcare providers, communities, and individuals is crucial to reversing the current trend. Also Read: Dengue Cases Rising in Kolkata: Hospitals Report 10–20 New Admissions Daily, Health Authorities Step Up Vigilance
In South East Asia, Awareness Can Save Millions of Lives
As World Heart Day reminds us, awareness remains the most powerful weapon against cardiovascular diseases. Educating people about risk factors, early warning signs, and healthy lifestyle choices can lead to early intervention and significantly reduce mortality rates. With a collective effort, South East Asia has the potential to prevent millions of premature deaths and create a healthier future for its growing population.
The #SEAHEARTS initiative which brings together measures aimed at reducing the cardiovascular disease burden is being rolled out by countries across the WHO South-East Asia Region to #beatNCDs.
For more information, check https://t.co/r2Av81xgfX pic.twitter.com/n043FBoVKK
— World Health Organization South-East Asia (@WHOSEARO) September 29, 2023
Conclusion
In South East Asia, heart disease is no longer just a health challenge it’s a regional emergency that demands urgent attention. With eight lives lost every minute, tackling cardiovascular disease requires a coordinated approach focused on prevention, early detection, and strong public health policies. A healthier future is possible, but it begins with awareness, action, and a shared commitment to protecting the heart of the region.
