Heart Diseases Can Be Prevented

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Heart diseases, like other non-communicable diseases, can be prevented if people adopt healthy habits, according to Prof. Joseph Mucumbitsi, a pediatric cardiologist and head of Rwanda’s NCD Alliance.

Speaking to journalists ahead of World Heart Day, which will be marked on September 28 in Rubavu District, Prof. Mucumbitsi emphasized that early check-ups and lifestyle changes play a vital role in prevention. Rwanda is observing a week-long campaign (September 21–28, 2025) with heart screenings and awareness activities to encourage healthy living.

“There are risk factors you cannot change, such as age, sex, or family history. But there are others you can control—your weight, diet, exercise, and habits,” he said.

Prof. Mucumbitsi noted that tobacco use, bad cholesterol (LDL), high blood pressure, obesity, and alcohol are major causes of heart disease. He pointed out that 8% of Rwandans aged 15–35 smoke, while one in ten children aged 13–15 also report smoking. Globally, tobacco kills 8 million people every year, with 80% of smokers living in low-income countries.

However, he stressed that heart disease is preventable: “Eating a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, exercising regularly, and going for health checks can make a big difference.”

Marie Mugeni, a patient diagnosed with high blood pressure, shared how lifestyle adjustments helped her. “At first it was hard to accept, but after medical advice I changed my diet, reduced salt, stopped alcohol, and now eat more vegetables and drink water. My condition has improved,” she said.

She urged others to go for early check-ups, noting that timely action saves lives.

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