Last Updated: September 29, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 29, 2026
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov
World Heart Day is Sept. 29
RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) remind you to add healthy habits into your daily lives to lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in Virginia. Lifestyle changes such as scheduling regular medical checkups, increasing physical activity, eating a healthy diet, giving up tobacco, and managing chronic conditions can decrease your risk of experiencing heart-related issues. World Heart Day is Sept. 29.
“Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Richmond City, Henrico County, and in Virginia as a whole,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Population Health Community Coordinator Caroline Best. “Richmond and Henrico have higher rates of heart disease deaths and hospitalizations compared to state averages. We can improve community heart health by increasing access to healthcare, nutritious foods, and places to stay active.”
Heart disease risk factors
Risk factors for heart disease and stroke include:
- High blood pressure
- High LDL (bad) cholesterol
- Smoking
- Physical inactivity
- Type 2 diabetes
- Obesity
Heart attack signs and symptoms
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the most common type of heart disease in the United States is coronary artery disease, which can lead to heart attack. In the United States, someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds.
If you have a heart attack, you are more likely to survive if you know the signs and symptoms:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back
- Feeling weak, light-headed, or faint
- Pain or discomfort in the arms or shoulder
- If you think that you or someone you know is having a heart attack, call 911 immediately.
Community heart health resources
The Richmond City and Henrico County communities identified chronic disease, including heart disease, as an area of concern in the 2024 RHHD Community Health Assessment (CHA). The Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) strengthens community awareness of free community blood pressure monitoring resources available at Richmond Public Library and YMCA locations.
For more information about heart disease, visit the Virginia Department of Health Heart Disease webpage.
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Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs.
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