World Heart Day: Richmond residents urged to know their numbers and learn lifesaving skills

Fahad Redha

September 29, 2026
3 min read

World Heart Day: Richmond residents urged to know their numbers and learn lifesaving skills

World Heart Day on 29 September is putting renewed attention on the everyday steps that can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, while also reminding Richmond residents that knowing what to do during a cardiac emergency can save a life.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) covers a range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary heart disease and stroke. Some cardiovascular conditions can develop without obvious symptoms, making it important to understand individual risk factors and take preventative action.

Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, being overweight, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes can all increase cardiovascular risk. Family history and age can also play a part.

This year’s World Heart Day theme, ‘Don’t miss a beat’, encourages people to make practical changes that can become part of everyday life. That could mean becoming more active, eating more fruit and vegetables, stopping smoking, staying within recommended alcohol limits or working towards a healthy weight.

Knowing key health measurements also matters. Blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels can provide important information about cardiovascular risk. People aged 40 to 74 who do not already have a cardiovascular condition may also be eligible for a free NHS Health Check, which assesses the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease. Those who believe they are eligible but have not been invited can contact their GP practice.

The message also extends beyond prevention. If someone collapses, is unresponsive and is not breathing normally, 999 should be called immediately. The ambulance call handler can provide instructions for CPR and help identify the nearest automated external defibrillator (AED).

AEDs are designed to be used by members of the public. Once switched on, the device gives spoken or visual instructions and assesses the person’s heart rhythm before delivering a shock when appropriate.

Richmond’s parks have gained three new AEDs, installed in July 2026 at Heathfield Recreation Ground, Old Deer Park and Carlisle Park. The equipment was provided through work involving The Richmond Heavies Foundation and The Paul Alan Project.

Residents can also learn basic lifesaving skills. Free Basic Life Support training organised by The Paul Alan Project and Richmond Rugby is taking place at Richmond Athletic Ground on 4 October, with further sessions expected to follow.

World Heart Day offers a useful reminder that heart health is not only about long-term lifestyle choices. It is also about being prepared to act when an emergency happens.

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About Author

Fahad Redha

Fahad is the Content Editor at EyeOnLondon, overseeing the publication’s editorial output across news, culture, and lifestyle. With a background in journalism from the University of the Creative Arts, he brings a broad range of experience from local London reporting in Kensington & Chelsea, where he held roles including motoring, events, and health editor. At EyeOnLondon, Fahad plays a central role in shaping content and maintaining editorial standards. His work spans everything from daily news to feature coverage, with a particular strength in motoring and events. He also incorporates photography into his reporting, adding a visual layer to many of his stories. Fahad joined EyeOnLondon in February 2021.