Raising Awareness: A Simple Test Could Save Lives from Heart Failure

A recent survey by YouGov, commissioned by Hearts4heart, has revealed that over 5 million Australians remain unaware of the significant health risks associated with heart failure, a condition affecting approximately half a million individuals nationwide. This lack of awareness extends to common comorbidities linked to heart failure, such as kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and lung disease. The survey results, published on June 21, 2025, indicate that many Australians do not recognize the critical connections between these health issues, highlighting a pressing public health concern.

Heart failure is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, responsible for around 61,000 deaths annually. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, half of those diagnosed with heart failure also live with chronic kidney disease, making it one of the most dangerous comorbidities. Alarmingly, about 63% of Australians are unaware of the link between heart failure and kidney disease, and more than half do not recognize the relationship between heart failure and type 2 diabetes, cancer, lung disease, or sleep-disordered breathing.

Chris Forbes, Chief Executive Officer of Kidney Health Australia, emphasized the importance of early detection, particularly for individuals with existing heart conditions. He stated, “Heart failure and cardiovascular disease are major risk factors for kidney disease, yet thousands of Australians are unaware they may be living with both conditions. It is essential that all people living with heart failure get a Kidney Health Check to get in front of kidney disease.” Forbes highlighted that early diagnosis can lead to proactive treatment options, referencing new medications that can significantly slow the progression of kidney disease.

Moreover, the survey uncovered that only 50% of Australians understand that heart failure can often be detected using simple diagnostic tools like a stethoscope or a basic blood test. Professor Andrew Sindone, Director of the Heart Failure Unit at Concord Hospital and Head of the Department of Cardiology at Ryde Hospital, pointed out the efficacy of the NT-proBNP blood test in diagnosing heart failure. Sindone successfully advocated for the inclusion of this test in the Medicare Benefits Schedule in November 2024, thereby making it accessible to eligible Australians. He stated, “The NT-proBNP test is simple and effective. It helps identify if a patient with common heart failure symptoms has high levels of a protein called BNP in the blood, which can indicate heart failure. This test is clinically accurate and efficient, providing a timely diagnosis.”

Tanya Hall, CEO and founder of Hearts4heart, is dedicated to promoting awareness about heart failure and its associated risks. “It’s deeply concerning that tens of thousands of Australians are unknowingly living with a life-threatening condition,” Hall remarked. She shared a personal story about losing her father to heart failure at a young age, emphasizing the importance of early detection tools. Hall encourages anyone experiencing common symptoms, such as shortness of breath or swelling in the legs, to consult their GP about potential risks and early screening.

As Heart Failure Awareness Week approaches, running from June 23 to 29, 2025, initiatives aimed at educating the public about heart failure and its comorbidities are more crucial than ever. Organizations like Hearts4heart are urging individuals to take proactive steps in understanding and managing their health risks. For more information on heart health and resources, individuals are encouraged to visit www.hearts4heart.org.au.

The implications of these findings are significant. Raising awareness about the connections between heart failure and its comorbidities could lead to earlier diagnoses and better health outcomes for thousands of Australians. As public health campaigns and educational initiatives continue, it is hoped that more individuals will engage in proactive health discussions with their healthcare providers, potentially saving lives in the process.