To raise awareness of cardiovascular disease and its links to other health conditions, "Mēness aptieka", "Veselības centru apvienība", "Centrālā laboratorija", and "Olpha" launched the public awareness campaign "Hear Your Heart!" on 10 June at Āgenskalns Market in Riga. As part of the campaign, visitors of all ages took advantage of free health screenings and consultations with healthcare professionals aimed at promoting heart health and early disease prevention.
Most visitors took advantage of the full range of free health services available, including blood pressure and pulse measurements, glycated hemoglobin testing, eye pressure measurements, and consultations with healthcare professionals to gain a better understanding of their overall health.
When asked why they chose to participate, many visitors highlighted the convenience and accessibility of the screenings, noting that they provided a quick and easy way to assess their health. Several participants also said that, should any concerns arise, they would follow up with their family doctor or an appropriate specialist. For some visitors, the screenings identified health indicators outside the normal range. These individuals received personalised recommendations for further medical evaluation and follow-up care.
"Some of the individuals who participated in the free health screenings were already aware of their existing health conditions. However, it was concerning to see that many still do not consistently follow their prescribed treatment and instead rely on how they feel. One particularly striking case involved a visitor whose blood pressure measured 182/109 mmHg. He initially questioned the result and asked for the measurement to be repeated using a different blood pressure monitor, but the second reading was equally high. During our conversation, he admitted that he had not taken his prescribed medication that day because he felt well," says Ieva Virza, Certified Pharmacist at "Mēness aptieka".
"We were pleased to see many people take advantage of the free glycated hemoglobin test. This screening shows average blood glucose levels over the past three months and helps detect diabetes risk early, as well as monitor those already diagnosed. During the campaign, we found elevated levels in several participants and advised them on next steps," says Vlada Terepa, laboratory doctor, head of the Immunology and Immunohaematology department at "Centrālā laboratorija" and family medicine resident.
"Cardiovascular disease often develops silently and may not cause symptoms for a long time. A person may feel well while the disease continues to progress, as high blood pressure frequently goes unnoticed. Unfortunately, many people seek medical attention only after serious complications, such as a heart attack, stroke, or damage to other organs, have already occurred. This is why it is important not to rely solely on how you feel. Preventive health check-ups should be carried out regularly. Even young adults should have their blood pressure checked every one to two years, visit their family doctor, and undergo routine blood tests," emphasises Alberts Bērziņš, cardiologist at "Veselības centru apvienība".
To improve public awareness of cardiovascular disease and its links to other health conditions, Mēness aptieka, Veselības centru apvienība, Centrālā laboratorija, and Olpha carried out the public awareness campaign "Hear your heart!" throughout June. As part of the campaign, residents in Riga, Liepāja, Valmiera, and Daugavpils were offered free health screenings and consultations with healthcare professionals.
The campaign aims to increase awareness of cardiovascular health by encouraging people to monitor key health indicators, adopt healthier lifestyle habits, and seek medical advice early, before serious health problems develop.
