Health promotion cardiac challenge #Kardiowyzwanie organized by cardiologists from the Heart Rhythm Section of the Polish Cardiac Society

Physical activity plays a key role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and other cardiovascular disorders. Research shows that many of the risk factors associated with heart disease can be reduced through lifestyle modification, and physical inactivity is one of the most serious dangers to our hearts. 

According to the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO), an adult should regularly engage in moderate physical activity for at least 150-300 minutes per week or less than 30 minutes per day. 

Unfortunately, around 50-60% of Poles do not perceive lack of exercise as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. However, studies show that an energy expenditure of about 1,000 kcal per week (e.g. swimming for 60 minutes burns about 400-500 kcal and a one-hour walk burns 200-300 kcal) is associated with many health benefits. Regular physical activity can reduce mortality by 25-47%, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by 30-50% and reduce the risk of stroke by 20-30%. 

To help patients change their habits and increase their physical activity, Prof Oskar Kowalski from the Silesian Centre for Heart Diseases in Zabrze and the ICDefibrillators Association have initiated the #kardiowyzwzwanie campaign. As part of this initiative, both patients and doctors are encouraged to take up the challenge of walking 7,500 steps per day. 

“As a cardiologist who provides consults to patients with rhythm disturbances (…), I have observed that a change in lifestyle leads to significant, sometimes even revolutionary changes in the clinical condition and well-being of patients. We have often observed in the outpatient clinic when a patient we had consulted, e.g. six months earlier when he still smoked, ate unhealthily, and was not physically active, returned to us after a few months in a condition when there was simply no reason to perform surgery. The symptoms of the arrhythmia had resolved, and the surgery was no longer needed. Of course, not every disorder can be prevented, but every cardiologist will agree that a healthy lifestyle is an effective prevention against many conditions and huge support in cardiac therapy. Together, let’s motivate our patients to be active every day”, says Prof Oskar Kowalski. 

To join the cardio challenge #kardiowyzwzwanie, you can monitor your physical activity and share your results on social media using the hashtag #kardiowyzwzwanie. 

Health education is the best investment in patients’ long-term health. As a doctor, you can also inspire your patients to be active by reminding them to choose forms of exercise that they enjoy. 

Big changes start with small steps. The Hemolens team joins the #kardiowyzwzwanie.