Media release: Tuesday 5 May, 2026
Heart Week 2026
Heart Foundation data shows that 3 in every 4 people have a heart age higher than their actual age
Data from the Heart Foundation's own Heart Age Calculator shows 3 in every 4 people who use the tool have a higher heart disease risk than is ideal for their age.
The concerning data has prompted the Heart Foundation this Heart Week to call on more people aged 45 and over to see their GP for a Medicare Heart Health Check to take action and prevent a heart attack or stroke.
Since 2019, more than 2 million people aged 35 and over have undertaken the Heart Age Calculator, a three-minute survey created by the Heart Foundation that gives people an estimate of their heart disease risk. People may be at higher risk of heart disease if their heart age is greater than their actual age, driven by the presence of one or more risk factors for heart disease, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
A analysis of the most recent data* found that 77% of users report a heart age above their actual age - an average of four years more - sparking concern that people aren't paying enough attention to their heart health.
Further analysis of data shows that:
- High blood pressure - 60 percent of participants had blood pressure above normal levels
- High cholesterol levels - 34 percent of participants had cholesterol above normal levels
- Family history of heart disease - almost 40 percent of participants had a family history of heart disease, potentially increasing their own risk.
Heart Foundation Healthcare Programs Manager, Natalie Raffoul, said the results underpinned why heart disease was still a leading cause of death in Australia. She urged people to book a Medicare Heart Health Check with their GP for a comprehensive check-up and assessment.
"This Heart Week, take 3 minutes to use the Heart Age Calculator and start understanding your risk," Ms Raffoul said.
"If your heart age is higher than your actual age, you may be at a higher risk of having a heart attack or stroke and you should speak to your GP about getting a Medicare Heart Health Check.
Don't leave it until it's too late: often the first symptom of heart disease is a heart attack or stroke. It's called the 'silent killer' for a reason."
Natalie Raffoul
Healthcare Programs Manager
To take the Heart Age Calculator, visit this link.
