This cycle ride will involve experts in valve disease from hospitals across England to bring attention to a disease that affects over 1.5 million people over the age of 65 in the UK, according to a 2016 Heart Valve Disease Survey*. Awareness of this disease is very low in the UK, despite its prevalence, with an average of 94% of people over the age of 60 being unaware of what aortic stenosis (the most common heart valve disease) is. The disease is easily detectable and diagnosis can involve a simple stethoscope exam from a primary care practitioner.
All money raised will be spent on patient resources, support, advice and guidance.
“Many over 65’s mistakenly believe that the symptoms of valve disease such as breathlessness, fatigue and chest pains are merely a result of getting older,” said Wil Woan. “With this cycle ride, we hope to raise awareness of the importance of not ignoring these symptoms and having your heart checked for heart valve disease.”
“I’m really honoured to be representing my fellow heart valve disease patients on this cycle tour,” says Pat Khan. “If it weren’t for my heart valve surgery and the treatment I received, I wouldn’t be here at all, let alone be participating in a cycle ride to France! I just want to spread the word about how important it is to have yourself checked and to pay my respects to those who didn’t receive the life-saving treatment that I was lucky enough to have in time.”