What is cardiovascular disease?
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a class of diseases that involve the heart and blood vessels. It is a major cause of death globally, responsible for over 17 million deaths per year. CVD encompasses various conditions, including:
- Coronary artery disease - Disease of the blood vessels supplying the heart muscle. Can cause angina (chest pain) and heart attacks.
- Cerebrovascular disease - Disease of blood vessels supplying the brain. Can lead to strokes.
- Peripheral arterial disease - Narrowing of blood vessels outside the heart. Often affects the legs.
- Atherosclerosis - Hardening and narrowing of arteries due to fatty deposits called plaque. Underlies many forms of CVD.
- Hypertension - Chronic elevated blood pressure. Puts extra strain on the heart over time.
There are various risk factors that make someone more likely to develop CVD:
- Non-modifiable factors:
- Age
- Gender
- Family history
- Modifiable lifestyle factors:
- Smoking
- Lack of exercise
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
Many types of CVD develop over decades but can be prevented or delayed through healthy lifestyle changes. Important prevention strategies include:
- Eating a heart-healthy diet
- Getting regular physical activity
- Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight
- Managing conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol
- Quitting smoking
If someone does develop CVD, treatment aims to manage symptoms and risk factors. Common treatments can include medications, surgery or procedures (e.g., stents), cardiac rehabilitation, or lifestyle changes.
Early detection is key - many people don't experience symptoms until CVD is advanced. Getting regular screenings and knowing risk factors helps catch issues early when they may be more treatable.
In summary, cardiovascular disease is a serious condition affecting the heart and blood vessels that can often be improved through lifestyle changes. Paying attention to controllable risk factors and living an overall heart-healthy lifestyle is the best way to prevent it.