A new campaign has been launched to raise awareness of heart failure, with a focus on prevention, early detection and living well with the condition.

Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood around the body properly. Symptoms can include breathlessness after exertion or even at rest, swollen legs and fatigue.

Untreated heart failure is potentially life-threatening, however there are treatments available and early diagnosis is key.

The new campaign, ‘Let’s Bump up the Pump’, was devised by the Irish Association of Heart Failure Nurses (IAHFN) and is supported by the heart and stroke charity, Croí.

According to Croí, about 2% of the population is affected by heart failure and this figure rises to 10% in older age groups. However, there are about another 2% of the population who are currently undiagnosed.

The aim of the campaign is to increase awareness of the signs and symptoms of heart failure, to increase the number of people who are diagnosed early and to increase the knowledge of those living with the condition.

Heart failure can be detected via a simple blood test called NTproBNP, which can be undertaken by a GP.

“Anyone concerned about symptoms of heart failure should contact their GP for an assessment. Ask about the NTProBNP test. The earlier you get diagnosed; the earlier treatment can begin which can potentially alter the course of this serious disease. With treatment, you can live well with heart failure,” explained IAHFN president and advanced nurse practitioner, Mairead Lehane.

The campaign was launched to coincide with European Heart Failure Awareness Week, which runs from May 1-7.