Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is an umbrella term that encompasses diseases such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, congenital heart defects, and more.
CVD is the 1 cause of death globally. In the United States alone, 1 in 4 deaths is caused by heart disease. Understanding what CVD entails and how to prevent it can save lives.
CVD develops when plaque builds up inside the arteries. This buildup is called atherosclerosis, which causes arteries to harden and narrow. As a result, blood flow to the heart and other parts of the body becomes restricted.
When blood supply to the heart is blocked, it can lead to conditions like:
Meanwhile, problems with heart valves, heart defects, or irregular heart rhythms characterize other CVDs like:
Risk factors that raise chances of developing CVD include:
Many risk factors are preventable through lifestyle changes. Leading a heart-healthy lifestyle with diet and exercise helps reduce CVD risk substantially.
Since CVD develops gradually over time, prevention plays a major role. Steps like eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and managing conditions can keep your heart in good shape.
Additionally, getting routine checkups allows early detection of CVD warning signs. Lifestyle changes and medications (if needed) can then help prevent further progression. Catching issues early is crucial for positive outcomes.
In summary, CVD encompasses various heart and blood vessel conditions. While genetic factors play a role, much of CVD is preventable through healthy behaviors. Avoiding risk factors and making heart-conscious choices day-to-day serves as the first line of defense against life-threatening heart disease.