Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is a leading cause of death globally. The most common types of cardiovascular disease are:
- Coronary artery disease (CAD) - this is when plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. Over time, this can lead to chest pain or heart attack.
- Stroke - This occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, either due to a blocked artery or a burst blood vessel. Without oxygen, brain cells start dying within minutes.
- High blood pressure - Also called hypertension, this makes the heart work too hard over time and can lead to heart attack, stroke, and other problems.
- Heart failure - When the heart muscle is damaged or overworked and can't pump blood properly. Fluid can back up into the lungs.
There are several risk factors that increase someone's chance of developing cardiovascular disease. Some major ones are:
- Smoking
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Unhealthy diet
- High alcohol intake
- Stress
- Family history/genetics
Luckily, many of these risk factors can be improved through lifestyle changes and medication if needed. Key prevention tips include:
- Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains. Avoid saturated/trans fats.
- Exercise regularly - aim for 150min/week of moderate activity.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Don't smoke and avoid secondhand smoke.
- Limit alcohol intake.
- Manage conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
- Reduce stress.
Getting symptoms checked early is vital too. Seek immediate medical attention at signs of heart attack or stroke. Ongoing problems like chest discomfort, palpitations, edema may warrant seeing a doctor for tests.
While cardiovascular disease remains highly prevalent, the good news is that substantial progress has been made in preventing and treating it over the last few decades. For example, deaths from heart disease and stroke have decreased greatly since the 1960s in many developed countries. Staying vigilant about maintaining heart health offers the best protection.