New data indicates the rate of coronary heart disease deaths in Warrnambool and the South West region is 20% higher than the state average.

Heart Foundation CEO Victoria, Kellie-Ann Jolly says as residents approach a COVID-normal summer, locals need to understand their personal risks for heart disease and take steps to address them.

Ms Jolly says, locals may have put off seeing a doctor this year, but it’s time now to make that appointment with almost 74 deaths are reported per 100,000 people from heart disease, the highest figure in the state.