“Heart disease is a lifestyle disease that can be largely prevented through healthy choices.”

You may have seen that phrase or heard it — I certainly have, and to some extent it is true for those privileged enough to have choices.

But what about those for whom there are no choices — who live without a safe place to play outside or where the air is toxic? Or people who don’t have access to fresh, healthy food, because processed food is less expensive, or because there are no grocery stores in their neighborhoods and they don’t have a car? People across the world and here at home face these non-choices every day.

World Heart Day is September 29 and this campaign of the World Heart Federation sheds light on the risks of heart disease that aren’t about personal choice. Heart disease is a lifestyle disease, yes. But it is also a public health threat and we need more than willpower to overcome it.

Sign the World Heart Day petition and then get your Twibbon to show your support.

Find out more about the World Heart Federation.