World Heart Day aims to raise awareness that most heart attacks occur at home and immediate action is crucial to survival, as cardiovascular disease is the world's biggest killer, responsible for 17.1 million deaths annually, most in developing countries like India where heart disease is the leading cause of death and will account for a third of global heart-related deaths by 2020 according to cardiologists in India marking World Heart Day.

1. On the occasion of World Heart Day on September 29, 2011, cardiologists in India are creating awareness that a majority of cardiac emergencies occur at home and taking action at the first signs of a heart attack is essential to prevent death due to heart attacks.

2. The World Heart Day was devised by the World Heart Federation, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, to prevent and control cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular diseases collectively form the number one worldwide killer, claiming 17.1 million lives a year, 80 percent in the developing world.

3. For Year 2011 the theme is One World, One Home, and One Heart

4. The World Heart Federation is urging individuals and families to become proactive about reducing heart diseases and strokes.

5. In India, heart disease is the single largest cause of death, with heart attacks being responsible for one third of all deaths caused.

6. It is estimated that by 2020, India will have the largest CV burden globally and account for 1/3 of all global deaths. About 35 to 50 percent of cases of heart disease in India affect people below the age of 50. Source : Dr. JAGDISH

7. World Heart Day 2011 INDIA