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Cardiovascular disease touches more than four million Australians and remains the leading cause of death across the country with the disease claiming 51 lives every day – killing one Australian every 30 minutes.
Heart Research Australia has concluded maintaining a healthy heart can also help protect the brain, cognitive function, and memory and reduce the risk of age-related conditions like dementia, with research highlighting the intimate connection heart and brain health share.
“The brain relies on a steady supply of blood from the heart,” says Clinical Neuropsychologist Dr Miranda Say.
“Conditions like high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can disrupt blood flow, increasing the risk of stroke and cognitive decline, including dementia.”
As recorded in 2024, over 421,000 Australians are living with dementia, and with the figure projected to double by 2054, vascular dementia and its link to cardiovascular health is becoming a growing concern.
In recognition of Heart Research Australia’s Heart Awareness Month, also known as REDFEB, Australians have been urged to come together and take action to safeguard both their heart and brain health to effectively reduce the alarming nationwide statistics.
Heart Research Australia’s CEO, Nicci Dent, has outlined the importance of taking proactive steps now.
“Prioritising heart health isn’t just about preventing heart attacks—it’s also about safeguarding your brain health and reducing your future risk of cognitive decline, including dementia,” she said.
“The message is simple, what’s good for your heart health is also good for your brain health.”
As part of REDFEB, Heart Research Australia encourages Australians to take small, simple steps to benefit both their heart and brain health in the areas of meals, movement, measurement and mental wellness. For further information on REDFEB, visit www.heartresearch.com.au.
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