As a co-signatory to the national Close the Gap campaign, the National Heart Foundation of Australia is today (Saturday) joining thousands of other organisations in recognising National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week, which starts tomorrow.

"National Sorry Day provides an opportunity for Australians to reflect on the enormous impact the Stolen Generations had on the poor health outcomes we see today," said Vicki Wade, Leader of the Heart Foundation's National Aboriginal Health Unit.

"Cardiovascular disease (heart, stroke and blood vessel disease) is the main contributor to the life expectancy differences between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians.

"Heart attack rates among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in their 30s are similar to those of other Australians in their 60s," Ms Wade said.

The theme for this year's National Sorry Day is "Stop Halfway! & Sit Down!" and the theme for Reconciliation Week is "Let's talk recognition".

As part of its commitment to closing the gap, the Heart Foundation will mark National Sorry Day with a number of internal events in its states and territory offices and all staff will be encouraged to sign a Sorry Day book reflecting on the day's activities.

"On National Sorry Day it's also particularly important to recognise the importance of emotional wellbeing and mental health in relation to cardiovascular disease. Studies have shown that some people who have depression or are socially isolated are at greater risk," Ms Wade added.

Cardiovascular disease and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, who experience and die from CVD at much higher rates than other Australians.

In 2009, 26% of total deaths among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples were from CVD.

Compared to other Australians, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are:

  • 1.3 times as likely to have CVD
  • 2.6 times more likely to die of CVD
  • more likely to die from CVD in every age group, particularly younger ages
  • 3 times more likely to have a major coronary event like a heart attack

- Heart Foundation