AF Campaign 2023

Atrial Fibrillation Takes Center Stage at World Heart Day 2023 in Indonesia

Jakarta, September 28, 2023

The World Heart Day (WHD) 2023 event, organized by the Indonesian Heart Association (PERKI), the Indonesian Heart Rhythm Society (InaHRS), and the Indonesian Heart Foundation (IHJ/YJI), was a resounding success. WHD is an annual event held to commemorate World Heart Day on September 29th, initiated by the World Heart Federation in collaboration with the World Health Organization. Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading global cause of death, making the theme of WHD 2023, "Use Heart, Know Heart", especially significant in raising awareness of heart health.

The WHD 2023 activities commenced with heart health education through media channels and a series of pre-event webinars, including general webinars, regional webinars by PERKI branches across Indonesia, and cardiology webinars.

The pinnacle of WHD 2023 unfolded on September 28, 2023, at the Southeast Plaza of the Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) stadium. The event, attended by up to 1500 participants, began with a "Heart Walk," a 7-kilometer walk around GBK forming a heart shape. This activity aimed to promote physical activity and combat sedentary lifestyles to prevent heart diseases.

Picture 1: The first picture captures Prof Yoga Yuniadi receiving an award as the founder of Meraba Nadi Sendiri (MENARI), symbolizing his dedication to raising awareness about atrial fibrillation and heart health.

The highlight of the day was the record-breaking "MENARI" (Meraba Nadi Sendiri) event, in which 8,217 participants across Indonesia simultaneously checked their heart rhythms by placing three fingers on the radial artery under their thumbs. This simple and cost-free initial screening method helps detect irregular heart rhythms, including atrial fibrillation (Afib).

Picture 2: The second picture showcases the Afib detection booth, where Kardia devices were used for heart rhythm examinations. Trained professionals provided health consultations, promoting the importance of early detection of atrial fibrillation and heart health.

The success of the WHD 2023 event was made possible through the support of the Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine FKUI, the National Cardiovascular Center Harapan Kita, and the Indonesian Heart Rhythm Society (InaHRS).

MeNaRI, Meraba Nadi Sendiri, an act focused on understanding our own heart rhythms, is gaining momentum and making its presence felt in all branches of PERKI. This innovative project aligns perfectly with our mission to promote heart health and empower individuals with knowledge about atrial fibrillation.

The Atrial Fibrillation Campaign together with the World Heart Day 2023 has ignited a spark of awareness among the population, emphasizing the significance of heart health and promoting healthier lifestyles.