Heart health education offered across Shanghai

Health education through webcasts, free consultations and community lectures were held on Tuesday, in observance of World Heart Day.

Cardiovascular disease is the top cause of death in China, covering over 40 percent of deaths. Both incidence and mortality rates of cardiovascular disease continue to rise, according to experts from the Shanghai Medical Association and the association’s cardiovascular disease branch, which organized the day's educational events.

In addition to promoting knowledge of cardiovascular disease prevention, experts also offered training in CPR to members of the public.

Dr Ge Junbo, a cardiovascular disease expert from Zhongshan Hospital, said surgery can save patients one at a time, but education can improve the overall awareness of many at once. Early and regular screening can help detect risks earlier and give patients timely intervention and treatment.