World Heart Day is this Sunday 29 September.
Our experts at the Monash Victorian Heart Institute and the Victorian Heart Hospital are encouraging everyone to look after their heart health and, regardless of your gender, get a heart health check!
Available to comment:
Dr Esther Davis, cardiologist and researcher at the Victorian Heart Hospital and Co-Lead of the Women's Heart Health Research Challenge at the Monash Victorian Heart Institute
Contact details: +61 3 9903 4840 or esther.davis@monash.edu
- Heart Health
- Women’s heart health
- Echocardiography
The following can be attributed to Dr Davis:
“Too many women simply do not know that cardiovascular disease is a major killer of women in Australia. Almost every hour of every day an Australian woman dies of heart disease. We need to educate women about heart disease and encourage women to advocate for their own heart health.
“World Heart Day is the perfect time to highlight the importance of heart disease in women and encourage all Australian women to be aware of their risk of developing heart disease as well as what they can do to reduce that risk.”
Dr Barbara R Cardoso, Senior Lecturer, Monash University Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food and Victorian Heart Institute
Contact details: +61 (0) 3 9903 4840, barbara.cardoso@monash.edu
(Unavailable 10.30am-2pm Thursday 26 September)
- Effects of diet on brain health (and risk of dementia)
- Effects of nut intake on disease risk factors (e.g. cardiovascular disease, diabetes)
The following can be attributed to Dr Cardoso:
“Nuts are a fantastic and tasty heart healthy snack: they have healthy fats, proteins and fibres that are good for your health. You can carry them in your pocket or serve them along with cheese and seasonal fruits on a grazing platter.
“Mixing different types of nuts will provide you with different nutrients for good health. A handful of nuts a day can protect your heart and your brain.”
Dr Hui-Chen Han, Cardiologist and electrophysiologist, Victorian Heart Hospital and Victorian Heart Institute.
Contact details: +61 (0) 3 9903 4840, or media@monash.edu
Read more of Dr Han’s commentary at Monash Lens
(Not available Thursday 8-12am, Friday-Sun between 8.30-10.30am)
- palpitations and arrhythmias
- pre-syncope (feeling lightheaded) and syncope (fainting)
The following can be attributed to Dr Han:
"This World Heart Day be aware of common symptoms of heart rhythm disorders, such as palpitations, lightheadedness, fainting, or chest discomfort. Early detection and treatment of arrhythmias can prevent more severe complications.
"If you notice frequent palpitations, fluttering, or irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), consult a doctor, especially if the episodes are long-lasting or accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness or chest pain.
"It's also important to stay hydrated for good heart health. Make sure to drink enough water throughout the day, especially during exercise or in warm weather. Dehydration can lead to electrolyte imbalances, which can trigger arrhythmias."
For more Monash media stories visit our news & events site: monash.edu/news
For any other topics on which you may be seeking expert comment, contact the Monash University Media Unit on +61 3 9903 4840 or media@monash.edu
