Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide.
This occurs when the heart or blood vessels can no longer pump blood around the body and deliver oxygen to tissues sufficiently, including during a heart attack, stroke or heart failure.
What increases your risks?
- Smoking
- Poor diet
- Lack of exercise
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
Other factors such as having a family history of CVD and genetics can also increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Key symptoms to look out for:
Chest pain, tightness or discomfort, arm or jaw pain, shortness of breath, dizziness and fatigue. Women are more likely to have pain that travels to the shoulders, abdomen and back.
How can we prevent CVD?
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting regular physical activity
- Avoiding smoking and alcohol intake
- Minimise stress
- Keep an eye on your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.
- Advocate for environmental changes to protect our air quality and climate.
This World Heart Day the World Heart Federation challenges us to walk, run or bike in a heart shape around your area!
Find more of our health tips here.
Book an appointment with our Chiropractor, Massage Therapists or Naturopathy here or call us on 9651 5559.
Source:
World Heart Federation. 2022. Risk Factors. https://world-heart-federation.org/world-heart-day/cvd-causes-conditions/risk-factors/