Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) :
Cardiovascular diseases are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels, including :
- coronary artery diseases (heart attack).
- Cerebrovascular disease (stroke).
- Hypertension (high blood pressure).
CVDs are the leading cause of death globally, accounting for nearly 18 million deaths annually
according to The World Health Organization (WHO).
Why Are CVDs So Dangerous ?
Highly Mortality Rate : Heart attacks and strokes are responsible for the majority of deaths,
often occurring suddenly without warning.
Global Prevalence : CVDs affect people in every country with low-and middle-income nations
bearing the greatest burden due to limited healthcare access.
Silent progression : Many cardiovascular conditions develop over years without symptoms,
making early detection difficult.
Lifestyle Factors : Poor diets, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption
significantly increase the risk.
Symptoms of Major CVDs :
Heart Attack :
- Chest pain, discomfort, or pressure.
- Shortness of breath.
- Nausea or lightheadedness.
Stroke :
- Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arms, or legs (especially one side).
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
- Vision problems or severe headache.
Causes and Risk Factors :
Modifiable Factors :
- Unhealthy diet (high salt, sugar, and trans fats).
- Lack of exercise.
- Smoking and alcohol abuse.
- Stress.
Non-Modifiable Factors :
- Genetics and family history.
- Age (Older adults are at higher risk).
- Gender (Men are higher risk in early life; women post-menopause)
Prevention and Management :
Healthy Lifestyle :
- Balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lead proteins.
- Regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes per week).
- quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
Regular Check-Ups :
- Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
Medical Management :
- Use prescribed medications like statins or antihypertensives.
- Surgical interventions (eg: stents, bypass surgery) in severe cases.
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