A public health event and presentation for residents took place at the town market in Đurđevac on 1 October, marking World Heart Day and the International Day of Older Persons. The event aimed to remind residents of the importance of caring for heart health, preventing cardiovascular diseases, and the benefits of active, healthy ageing.
World Heart Day is observed to raise awareness about heart and blood vessel diseases, which are among the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Particular emphasis is placed on prevention and the early detection of risk factors, such as high blood pressure and blood sugar, as well as the importance of a healthy diet and regular physical activity.
As part of the event, staff and volunteers from the Đurđevac Health Centre, the Institute of Public Health, and the local branch of the Croatian Red Cross measured residents' blood pressure, blood sugar, weight, and height. Staff from the emergency medical service delivered a presentation on basic first aid. Residents were able to see how to respond correctly in the event of cardiac arrest, as well as how to handle injuries, including the proper bandaging of wounds.
A special part of the programme was dedicated to education on healthy eating, the importance of movement and maintaining heart health, as well as recognising the early symptoms of a heart attack. Organisers reminded attendees that care for health begins with prevention – regular check-ups, healthy lifestyle habits, exercise, and timely response to health complaints.
The event was attended by numerous residents, retirees, town councillors, and the mayor of Đurđevac, Hrvoje Janči. Mayor Janči congratulated residents on World Heart Day and the International Day of Older Persons, emphasising the importance of prevention. He stated that it is important to take care of one's health and not wait for problems to arise, noting that regular blood pressure and sugar checks, exercise, a healthy diet, and self-care can significantly contribute to maintaining health.
The mayor also stated that it is a special wish to ensure adequate healthcare for all residents. He noted that, following the model of Križevci, the Đurđevac Health Centre is being extended to ensure a sufficient number of consulting rooms, which will then be staffed by doctors. He added that Đurđevac now has a facility of the Centre for Older Persons, which will be operational by the end of the year.
Participants in the event included Lana Šepec, director of the Koprivnica-Križevci County Institute of Public Health; Željka Fruk, director of the Koprivnica-Križevci County Health Centre; Tomo Jozek, president of the Đurđevch Retirees' Association and town councillor; as well as staff and volunteers from the participating health and humanitarian services. The gathering and educational programme were enriched by a performance from the Choir of the Đurđevac Retirees' Association.
