Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Week, observed from September 18th to 24th, is a crucial initiative to spotlight a growing concern in Australia. With hearts4heart leading the way, this week serves as a reminder that approximately 500,000 Australians are currently affected by Atrial Fibrillation (AF), a number projected to double in the coming decade.

It's a stark reality that as many as 30 per cent of individuals living with AF are undiagnosed. This lack of awareness places them at a significantly higher risk of stroke, heart failure, and dementia. Astonishingly, many AF sufferers don't experience noticeable symptoms, leaving them unaware of this underlying heart condition that could be life-threatening. Recognising an irregular heartbeat could be the key to saving lives.

Hearts4heart, a prominent health promotion charity, is at the forefront of this important cause. With the support of Australian and New Zealand cardiologists, they are dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for individuals grappling with heart disease. This year marks the milestone 10th Annual Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Week, and its primary objective is to enhance public understanding of AF symptoms and risk factors.

As Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Week unfolds, they are responsible for heeding the call to action. Reach out to your GP, especially if you are at risk, and have your heart checked. By increasing awareness and understanding of AF, we can contribute to a healthier, heart-conscious society and potentially save lives. Join hearts4heart and the medical community in this vital campaign to ensure that no one's heart health goes unnoticed.

Introducing Jim Micholos, a 55-year-old resident of Adelaide. In his late 40s, Jim began to notice the unmistakable symptoms of atrial fibrillation: irregular heartbeat, restlessness, and dizziness. Unfortunately, like many Australians, Jim attributed these signs to various causes unrelated to his heart. Tragically, this misjudgement led to a severe stroke, landing Jim in the hospital for a week.

During that time, no healthcare professional could piece together the puzzle, and the underlying cause of Jim's stroke remained a baffling mystery. Fortunately, Jim's regular general practitioner, who had his own experience with atrial fibrillation, played a pivotal role. This heightened awareness initiated an investigative journey, ultimately culminating in Jim's diagnosis.

Since that fateful incident, Jim has embarked on a journey towards effectively managing his condition to stave off further complications. Through his personal experience, Jim has gained a profound understanding of the critical importance of disease awareness. He fervently hopes that all fellow Australians can take this opportunity to educate themselves about this condition during Heart4Heart's Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Week and prioritise their heart health by seeking regular check-ups.

Jim earnestly advises, "Even if you have the slightest inkling that something might be amiss with your heart, don't hesitate to consult your doctor. There's nothing more regrettable than remaining silent and not seeking answers. Your first step should always be a conversation with your trusted GP."