20 January 2024

Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease is a condition caused by disorders of the heart and blood vessels.

Common cardiovascular diseases include heart attacks, arrhythmias, heart failure, and strokes.

There are various risk factors that can increase a person's risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, for both men and women:

Non-modifiable risk factors:

1. Age
   The risk increases as a person gets older. Typically, individuals aged ≥ 40 years are advised to start having their heart health checked.

2. Gender
   Men are more at risk of developing cardiovascular diseases compared to women. The risk factors for women increase after menopause.

3. Family history of cardiovascular diseases.

Modifiable risk factors:

1. High blood pressure (hypertension)

2. Cholesterol

3. Diabetes Mellitus

4. Obesity

5. Lack of physical activity/exercise

6. Smoking

7. Stress

A healthy lifestyle can prevent a person from experiencing cardiovascular diseases. Some actions that can be taken to lead a healthy lifestyle include:

1. Quit smoking
   Smoking doubles the risk of a heart attack compared to non-smokers. Passive smokers are also at risk of heart disease.
2. Control blood pressure
   The normal blood pressure value is 120/80 mmHg. Maintain blood pressure by keeping a healthy diet and regular exercise
3. Watch your cholesterol levels
   A low-fat diet can help lower bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol.
4. Regularly check your blood sugar level
   Control diabetes with a healthy diet, exercise, maintain a healthy weight, and take prescribed medications if necessary.
5. Be active in exercising
   Exercise should be done regularly at least 5 times a week for 30 minutes each or 150 minutes/week with intensity and type of exercise adjusted to your age and ability.

Reviewed by : Dr. Widi Angga Kusuma, M.K.K.

Source : Mayapada Hospital Health Article

Photo : freepik.com