Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, with the highest prevalence in low- or moderate-income countries. The World Health Organization predicts an increase in deaths from cardiovascular disease, particularly in Southeast Asia and Eastern Mediterranean countries. Poverty, stress, and an aging population are contributing factors. Prevention includes a healthy diet, exercise, and avoiding tobacco, while treatment includes medication and surgery.
The prevalence of cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Heart disease ranks first in the number of deaths from these diseases, with stroke being the second most common cause of death. The prevalence of cardiovascular disease is highest in countries with low- or moderate-income residents, which account for more than 80% of cases. Cardiovascular disease affects men and women equally.
The World Health Organization (WHO) expects the number of deaths from cardiovascular disease to rise each year, with the largest increases occurring in Southeast Asia and Eastern Mediterranean countries. People with low to moderate annual incomes typically have fewer preventive resources available. Furthermore, they lack access to quality medical care and early interventions, increasing the prevalence of cardiovascular disease.
Residents in these areas die younger from these diseases. The poorest are the hardest hit, and the prevalence of cardiovascular disease in a household could lead to increased poverty. WHO reports that a third of a family’s total annual household income could be spent on treating cardiovascular disease after a heart attack or stroke.
In addition to poverty, stress increases the prevalence of cardiovascular disease worldwide. Other factors include globalization and an aging population. Healthcare organizations aim to educate people about the risks and lifestyle choices that lead to these diseases. Tobacco control programs are one way to do this.
Cardiovascular disease is defined as any disease of the heart or blood vessels leading to a heart attack or stroke. Coronary artery disease affects the vessels leading to the heart, while cerebrovascular disease affects the blood vessels to the brain. Peripheral arterial disease also affects the vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the brain. A blockage typically comes from fatty deposits that build up inside the vessel walls.
These clots could cause a stroke if they break open or block the blood supply. Deep vein thrombosis creates blood clots in the legs that could travel to the heart or brain, causing a heart attack or stroke. The prevalence of cardiovascular disease could also result from rheumatic fever which damages the heart or from birth defects.
Cardiovascular disease can be prevented through diet, exercise and avoiding tobacco. A healthy diet of fruits and vegetables, combined with daily exercise, reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. These strategies could help keep blood pressure and cholesterol down and keep your weight at a healthy level.
Once these disorders are diagnosed, they can be treated with medications to lower blood pressure or cholesterol. A low daily dose of aspirin typically thins the blood to prevent blood clots. Surgery to reduce the prevalence of cardiovascular disease includes artery bypass surgery, angioplasty to unclog a blood vessel, and pacemakers to restore normal heart rhythm.
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