Heart Failure Crisis: A Call to Action!

As heart failure cases skyrocket across Canada, the Canadian Heart Failure Society (CHFS) is stepping up just in time for the seventh annual National Heart Failure Awareness Week, running from May 4-10, 2025. This year, a staggering 120,000 Canadians are expected to be diagnosed with heart failure, highlighting an urgent health crisis affecting more lives than ever.

The Alarming Statistics

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, over 827,000 people aged 40 and older currently live with heart failure, impacting 1 in 3 Canadians either directly or through a loved one. Yet, despite these alarming figures, many remain unaware of the growing prevalence of this condition.

Expert Insights on Heart Health

Dr. Justin Ezekowitz, President of the CHFS, underscores the urgency of National Heart Failure Awareness Week: "While we have made great strides in heart disease prevention and management, the rise in heart failure cases is a clear signal that we need to ramp up awareness, education, and proactive measures to save lives."

Free Resources Available!

To combat this growing issue, the CHFS has partnered with multiple national organizations to deliver free toolkits designed for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. These resources are aimed at enhancing awareness, early detection, and effective management of heart failure.

Real Stories of Heart Failure

One such story is that of Todd Murray, a 52-year-old former sports referee who experienced shortness of breath and anxiety before being diagnosed with heart failure. Todd urges fellow Canadians to recognize potentially life-threatening symptoms: "It's crucial to understand that heart failure can affect anyone, regardless of age. Always seek medical advice if something feels off!"

Lighting the Way to Awareness

This year's awareness campaign features the theme "It Is Not Normal To Be Breathless," which aims to ignite conversations about heart health across Canada. Cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver will illuminate famous landmarks in red to promote awareness during this pivotal week.

Get Involved!

Mark your calendars for these landmark illuminations: - May 2: Vancouver, BC Place Stadium - May 5: Vancouver, Sails of Light & Science World; Toronto, CN Tower; Montreal, La Grande Roue - May 6: Ottawa, Ottawa Sign in ByWard Market - May 9: Mississauga, Clock Tower - May 11: Nova Scotia, Legislature Building

About the CHFS

The Canadian Heart Failure Society is committed to advancing care in heart failure prevention, diagnosis, and management through advocacy, education, and the development of best practices. Their goal is to improve the lives of patients and equip healthcare providers with the necessary tools and knowledge to tackle this growing health concern.

For media inquiries or interviews with healthcare professionals and patients, please contact Lindsay Silverberg at lindsay@lprconsulting.ca.