What is cardiovascular disease?
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is an umbrella term that encompasses diseases like coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, congenital heart defects, and more.
CVD is the leading cause of death globally. In the US alone, 1 in 4 deaths is attributable to heart disease. Identifying risk factors and making lifestyle changes can help prevent CVD.
Main Types
The most common types of cardiovascular disease include:
- Coronary artery disease - Buildup of plaque in the heart's arteries that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. Can cause heart attack.
- Heart failure - When the heart cannot pump enough blood and oxygen to meet the body's needs.
- Arrhythmias - Abnormal heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia.
- Heart valve problems - Defective or narrow heart valves that don't allow sufficient blood flow.
Risk Factors
Modifiable risk factors that increase the chances of developing CVD:
- High blood pressure
- High LDL cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Physical inactivity
- Unhealthy diet
Non-modifiable risk factors include:
- Family history of early heart disease
- Age (men ? 45 years, women ? 55 years)
- Gender (men at greater risk)
Prevention
Preventing CVD involves controlling risk factors through:
- Taking medications for conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol
- Maintaining healthy body weight
- Exercising regularly
- Not smoking
- Reducing stress
- Eating a balanced, nutritious diet
Early evaluation and screening for CVD risk factors provides the best opportunity for prevention and treatment.