World Heart Day 2026: the heart attack warning signs to know

Today is World Heart Day. The World Heart Federation's 2026 campaign is called "Don't Miss a Beat," and it focuses on the warning signs of heart disease that people often overlook or dismiss. The federation says cardiovascular disease claims more than 20 million lives each year, and that 80 percent of those deaths come from risk factors that can be prevented or managed.

So what are the signs? The American Heart Association lists chest discomfort that feels like pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain, lasting more than a few minutes or coming and going. Discomfort can also show up in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. Shortness of breath can happen with or without chest pain. Other signs include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, lightheadedness and unusual fatigue.

Symptoms are not always dramatic, and they can differ between men and women. The association notes that women may have signs less often linked with heart attacks, such as anxiety, vomiting, pain in the shoulder, back or arm, and unusual weakness. Its guidance is simple: call 911 if you have any symptoms of a heart attack, because minutes matter and emergency services are almost always the fastest way to get treatment.

The federation's campaign also offers an online "Are You Heart Smart?" quiz on myths, hidden symptoms and risk factors. This is general information, and a doctor is the right person to talk with about your own risk, blood pressure, cholesterol or any symptom that worries you.

Today, take a minute to read the warning signs with someone you live with, so both of you would know to call 911, and if a checkup is overdue, book it this week.