A recent survey conducted by YouGov for Hearts4heart has revealed that over 5 million Australians are unaware of the common comorbidities associated with heart failure, such as kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, lung disease, and sleep-disordered breathing.

Heart failure affects around half a million Australians, with over 67,000 new cases diagnosed annually. It is a serious condition responsible for approximately 61,000 deaths each year, with a high percentage occurring within five years of diagnosis.

Patients with heart failure often deal with multiple health issues like irregular heart rate, high blood pressure, kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, iron deficiency, and mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.

The survey highlighted a lack of awareness among Australians regarding the connection between heart failure and related comorbidities. For instance, 63% of respondents were unaware of the link between heart failure and kidney disease.

Approximately half of individuals with heart failure also have chronic kidney disease, a common and dangerous comorbidity. Early detection of kidney disease through a Kidney Health Check, which includes blood and urine tests as well as a blood pressure check, is crucial for timely treatment.

Chris Forbes, CEO of Kidney Health Australia, stresses the importance of early detection, especially for those with heart conditions. He emphasizes the need for all heart failure patients to undergo a Kidney Health Check to identify and address kidney disease early.

In addition to kidney disease, many Australians are unaware of the connection between heart failure and other comorbidities like type 2 diabetes, cancer, lung disease, and sleep-disordered breathing.

Furthermore, only 50% of Australians know that heart failure can be detected through simple diagnostic tools like a routine stethoscope check or a basic blood test.

Professor Andrew Sindone, Director of the Heart Failure Unit at Concord Hospital, highlights the importance of early detection in effectively managing heart failure. He emphasizes the significance of the NT-proBNP blood test, which was added to the Medicare Benefits Schedule in November 2024, making it accessible to eligible Australians.

Tanya Hall, CEO of Hearts4heart, is committed to raising awareness about heart failure and the importance of early detection through initiatives like Heart Failure Awareness Week. She encourages individuals experiencing symptoms of heart failure to seek early screening and have meaningful conversations with their healthcare providers.

If you or someone you know is showing signs of heart failure, visit www.hearts4heart.org.au for resources and information.