Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is a broad term that encompasses diseases such as:
- Coronary artery disease (CAD) - disease of the blood vessels supplying the heart muscle
- Cerebrovascular disease - disease of blood vessels supplying the brain
- Peripheral arterial disease - disease of blood vessels supplying the arms and legs
- Rheumatic heart disease - damage to the heart muscles and valves from rheumatic fever
- Congenital heart disease - malformations of heart structure existing at birth
Some key risk factors for CVD include:
- High blood pressure
- Cigarette smoking
- High LDL cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Unhealthy diet
Many forms of CVD can be prevented by addressing risk factors. For example, we can:
- Eat a heart-healthy diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, poultry, fish, and low-fat dairy, while limiting processed meats, sugary foods, refined carbs, and tropical oils
- Be physically active for 150 minutes per week
- Achieve and maintain a healthy body weight
- Manage blood sugar levels if diabetic
- Take medications as prescribed to control blood pressure and cholesterol
Early detection is also key. Getting regular checkups and knowing numbers like blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar can help prevent further progression of CVD if caught early.
Treatment depends on the specific form of CVD. Some common interventions include:
- Medications - e.g., statins, ACE inhibitors, beta blockers
- Medical procedures - e.g., angioplasty, stents, bypass surgery
- Lifestyle changes - as discussed above
The outlook for CVD varies widely depending on severity, access to treatment, patient adherence, and other medical conditions. However, many forms of CVD are preventable, treatable, or manageable with today's medical care. The key is addressing risk factors early and making heart-healthy lifestyle choices.