Cardiovascular Diseases
Understanding Cardiovascular Diseases
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a group of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and other conditions. These diseases are the leading cause of death globally, taking an estimated 18 million lives each year. CVDs are usually associated with a build-up of fatty deposits inside the arteries and an increased risk of blood clots.
Types of Cardiovascular Diseases
Coronary Heart Disease: Occurs when the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle is blocked or reduced, often leading to chest pain (angina) or a heart attack.
Stroke and Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA): Happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. A stroke can cause significant brain damage or death, while a TIA is a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain, causing short-term neurological symptoms.
Peripheral Arterial Disease: Occurs when there is a blockage in the arteries to the limbs, usually the legs, causing pain and mobility issues.
Aortic Diseases: These include conditions affecting the aorta, the body’s largest vessel, which carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. An aortic aneurysm, where the aorta weakens and bulges outwards, is a common aortic disease. This condition usually doesn’t cause symptoms, but can be life-threatening if the aneurysm ruptures. Click here to learn more about the disease.
Despite advancements in medical science, there remain significant gaps in our understanding and management of these diseases. Recognizing and managing risk factors is crucial for preventing cardiovascular diseases.
Key Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Hypertension
What is Hypertension? High blood pressure (hypertension) occurs when the pressure of the blood in the arteries and other blood vessels is too high. It is measured using two numbers: the systolic pressure (higher number) and the diastolic pressure (lower number). Hypertension is a major risk factor for CVD, leading to increased strain on the heart and arteries.
Impact and Management: High blood pressure can lead to serious health problems like heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. Managing hypertension involves lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and possibly medication.
Diabetes
What is Diabetes? Diabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are too high. Type 1 diabetes involves the body’s immune system attacking insulin-producing cells, while Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insufficient insulin production or the body’s cells not responding to insulin.
Impact and Management: Diabetes significantly increases the risk of CVD. Effective management includes lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and blood sugar monitoring. Diets like the Mediterranean or DASH are particularly beneficial.
Hypercholesterolemia
What is Hypercholesterolemia? This condition occurs when there is too much cholesterol in the blood, leading to plaque build-up in arteries. Cholesterol levels are classified into HDL (good cholesterol) and LDL (bad cholesterol).
Impact and Management: High LDL levels increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, while high HDL levels are protective. Managing cholesterol involves dietary changes, physical activity, and possibly medication. Foods recommended include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Overweight and Obesity
What is Overweight and Obesity? Overweight is defined as a BMI over 25, and obesity is a BMI over 30. Excess weight increases the risk of developing conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and CVD.
Impact and Management: Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is crucial. Nutritional interventions and physical activity are key to weight loss and long-term health.
Lifestyle Advices for Cardiovascular Health
Physical Activity
Importance: Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of CVD. It helps manage weight, reduce blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels.
Recommendations: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Activities can include brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or any activity that increases your heart rate.
Diet and Nutrition
Healthy Eating: A diet rich in vegetables (at least 250 grams), fruits (200 grams), whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy can lower blood pressure and improve overall health. Limiting sweets, sugar-sweetened beverages, and red meat is also important.
Salt and Potassium: Reducing salt intake and increasing potassium-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, potatoes, nuts, and legumes can help lower blood pressure.
Alcohol and Smoking
Alcohol Consumption: Limit alcohol intake to one drink per day and avoid drinking daily. Alcohol can increase blood pressure, especially if more than 2 units are consumed.
Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking is crucial as it directly impacts heart rate and blood pressure. Support for smoking cessation can significantly reduce cardiovascular risks.
Educational Resources
Hartstichting – Ziektebeelden Van Hart- En Vaatziekten
Hartstichting – Behandeling Van Hart- En Vaatziekten
Hartstichting – Algemeen
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