Dr. Mohammed Al Otaibi, senior consultant in family medicine at Leabaib Health Center under the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), highlighted the ongoing global challenge posed by cardiovascular diseases in observance of World Heart Day on September 29, 2026. He underscored that heart diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide, affecting individuals across all age groups due to a combination of genetic, health, and lifestyle factors.
The 2026 campaign, themed “Don’t Miss a Beat,” emphasizes the vital importance of heart health as a continuous priority, encouraging prevention, early detection, and management of modifiable risk factors before the onset of disease. Dr. Al Otaibi stressed that protecting heart health extends beyond treating medical conditions— it requires adopting a healthy lifestyle, undergoing regular health check-ups, and seeking prompt medical care when warning signs arise.
Among the primary risk factors, smoking was identified as a significant contributor to cardiovascular disease, directly damaging blood vessels and raising the likelihood of coronary artery disease and blood clots. Dr. Al Otaibi emphasized quitting smoking as a crucial step and pointed to PHCC’s network of 16 smoking cessation clinics staffed by qualified specialists to support individuals aiming to quit.
Obesity, physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, and chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol were also cited as critical factors affecting heart health. Addressing these risks involves adherence to balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and consistent medical follow-up. Dr. Al Otaibi recommended diets rich in vegetables, fruits, and fish, with reduced intake of salt, saturated fats, sugars, and fast food, alongside making movement a routine part of daily life by utilizing community facilities such as parks and walking paths.
Regular health screenings play a foundational role in early identification and management of cardiovascular issues. Routine monitoring of blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol, alongside additional physician-recommended tests tailored to individual risk profiles, can prevent progression to severe complications. Dr. Al Otaibi also highlighted the importance of mental health in overall well-being, encouraging stress management through relaxation techniques and meaningful social interactions.
He warned against ignoring symptoms indicative of heart problems, such as unexplained chest pain, sudden breathlessness, or irregular heartbeats, advising immediate medical evaluation to minimize potential complications.
Qatar continues to expand efforts to enhance community health via healthcare development, early detection programs, and disease prevention initiatives. Dr. Al Otaibi emphasized that safeguarding heart health is a collective responsibility shared among individuals, families, communities, and government institutions. He called on the public to internalize the World Heart Day slogan beyond the annual observance as a daily commitment to maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle through ongoing vigilance and care.