Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide, with 17.9 million people dying of them in 2019. They account for 32% of global deaths, and most are caused by a heart attack or stroke. In fact, three quarters of CVD deaths occur in low and middle-income countries, and a significant number of premature deaths occur in people below the age of 70. Fortunately, most CVDs can be prevented or treated, particularly if they are detected early.
Heart attacks, strokes, and pulmonary embolism are all common causes of cardiovascular disease. The most common form of cardiovascular disease, known as coronary artery disease, is a narrowing of the blood vessels supplying the heart. Cardiovascular disease may also affect the blood vessels supplying the brain. Blood clots or bleeding from a blood vessel in the brain can cause a stroke. While the causes of all cardiovascular diseases are different, the main culprits are age, unhealthy diet, and tobacco use.
During a physical exam, a healthcare provider may also order tests to determine the cause of heart failure and cardiovascular disease. These tests include blood work that measures certain proteins and substances that indicate cardiovascular health. An electrocardiogram records electrical activity in the heart and can be performed during an exercise session. Other tests may include ambulatory monitoring with wearable devices and cardiac CT and MRI, which use magnets and radio waves to create images of the heart.
CVDs are the leading cause of death in low-income countries, and the disease burdens both the economy and the household. For this reason, CVD management interventions should be part of any universal health care package. Managing CVDs requires significant investment in health systems. People should have regular screenings starting at age 20 to reduce their risk of developing the disease. It is also important to monitor any abnormalities in blood pressure, which may lead to a stroke or heart attack.
Although the development of a cardiovascular disease is hereditary, it is easier to treat if it is detected early. Severe shortness of breath is an indication that cardiovascular disease is progressing. Various medications and lifestyle changes can help manage cardiovascular diseases and prevent them from progressing to the more serious stages. But early detection and treatment is the key to achieving optimal heart health. If you have any of these risk factors, visit your doctor as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis. It may also be useful to rule out andropause (male menopause) if the symptoms overlap.
The benefits of exercise are well documented. Those with heart disease who engage in physical activity report an improved quality of life and earlier return to work. Furthermore, those with a heart attack who engage in a structured exercise program experience a reduction in mortality rates by 20 to 25%. However, studies have not proven that this exercise program improves the pumping capacity of the heart or the coronary arteries. In fact, sedentary lifestyles are associated with a higher risk for coronary heart disease than people who do not exercise regularly.
The term Cardiovascular Health refers to your heart and blood vessels. Although some cardiovascular diseases are hereditary, many are preventable. High blood pressure, smoking, and high cholesterol are all known risk factors for cardiovascular disease. These risks can increase your chances of developing heart attacks and stroke. If you are at an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, you should get an NHS Health Check regularly. Your doctor will assess your risk and recommend ways you can lower it.
This is the primary goal of preventing heart disease, stroke, and other major health problems. People with cardiovascular risk factors should focus on the primary prevention of these illnesses. These treatments include lifestyle changes, medication, and diet. The results of this plan can lower your risk of a second heart attack or a stroke and even prevent early death. In addition to helping you to lower your risk, cardiovascular health improves your quality of life. Fortunately, the good news is that you can begin preventing heart disease and stroke as early as childhood.
The American Heart Association recommends that people enlist in a high-quality physical activity program and to avoid smoking. By reducing your salt intake, getting regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol, you can reduce your chances of developing cardiovascular disease. Changing these factors can be difficult, but they can help to lower your risk. MMWR, published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, provides information on cardiovascular health and risk reduction.
Cardiovascular disease, also known as coronary artery disease, is a group of diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels. Lifestyle factors like high blood pressure, smoking, and lack of physical activity increase your risk for cardiovascular disease. The most common type of cardiovascular disease is coronary artery disease, which causes chest pain and can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Other types of cardiovascular diseases include congestive heart failure, arrhythmia, and stroke.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend cardiac rehabilitation. They can perform various tests to assess the extent of cardiovascular disease. Your healthcare provider may recommend medications or conduct an electrocardiogram (ECG) to determine your heart’s response to stress. This procedure involves inserting a catheter into your heart to assess the blood flow and pressure levels. In some cases, your healthcare provider may also prescribe certain lifestyle changes such as increasing your physical activity, quitting smoking, and following a healthy diet.
There is a growing body of research that links employment status with cardiovascular health. Despite the many risks associated with working in low-income countries, the American Heart Association estimates that nearly 43 percent of U.S. citizens will suffer from CVD by 2030, and the cost of preventing or treating this disease will increase by nearly 58% to $290 billion. The growing body of scientific literature indicates that employers play an important role in addressing these issues.
