It is #WorldHeartMonth, and Mark was pleased to meet with Heart Valve Voice, a UK charity dedicated to raising awareness, providing support, and improving treatment for heart valve disease.

Heart valve disease is a progressive heart condition associated with ageing, where the heart valves become damaged through wear or disease and cease to function properly. If left untreated, it can lead to heart failure.

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in women, yet it is often misdiagnosed or overlooked, with symptoms attributed to stress, anxiety, or menopause.

The parliamentary event highlighted the importance of early detection, equitable access to care, and the need to challenge outdated perceptions of heart disease.