Dhaka: Chief Whip of the Jatiya Sangsad Md. Nurul Islam today said the National Heart Foundation (NHF) is a unique institution and it has successfully reached the doorsteps of common people with awareness messages on heart diseases. He made the remarks while addressing a public seminar as the chief guest marking the World Hypertension Day 2026 at the National Heart Foundation in the capital.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the seminar was organised with the theme, ‘Together Control Blood Pressure, Defeat the Silent Killer’. The chief whip emphasized that heart disease is currently one of the leading causes of death in the world. He noted that a person may suffer a sudden heart attack even while walking normally, as stated in a press release of the Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat.
He pointed out that the heart is one of the most important organs of the human body, functioning continuously from birth to death. Therefore, maintaining heart health is crucial. Highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle, he advised reducing the intake of oil and salt and engaging in regular physical exercise to prevent heart-related diseases.
The chief whip also expressed concern over the excessive use of pesticides, chemical fertilisers, and hybrid food products, warning that these pose serious threats to public health. He noted the increasing detection of kidney-related complications among children aged between 10 and 15 years.
Furthermore, he addressed the issue of food adulteration, pointing out the use of excessive chemicals in fish, poultry, and vegetables. He criticised some dishonest traders for producing and marketing harmful food items knowingly.
Recalling the early days of the National Heart Foundation, he mentioned that there was no building initially, and medical services were provided on grass fields. The seminar was inaugurated with the release of a balloon following a recitation from the Holy Quran.
The event was chaired by Prof. Khondaker Abdul Awal (Rizvi), and the keynote paper was presented by Prof. Sohel Reza Choudhury. World Hypertension Day is observed globally on May 17 every year to raise awareness about high blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney ailments.