27 Feb 2025

Understanding Cardiovascular Disease and Ways To Prevent The Disease

A variety of disorders affecting the blood vessels and the heart are jointly referred to as cardiovascular disease (CVD), which usually occurs when cholesterol deposits build up in the arteries. About 27% of deaths in the UK are attributable to CVD, many of which could’ve been avoided with changes in one’s diet and lifestyle. This is why cardiac care London is very important, and regular checkups are advised.

Cardiovascular diseases types

• Diseases of the aorta: These are conditions that affect the aorta, the biggest blood vessel in the body, and are characterised by cholesterol build-up and damages.
• Stroke and transient ischaemic attack (TIA): Often called mini-stroke, this condition is usually caused by obstructions in the brain’s arteries.
• Coronary heart diseases: heart attack, angina, and failure of the heart may result from this condition, which is caused by a restriction in blood flow to the heart muscle.
• Peripheral vascular disease: it is a condition that affects circulation when the arteries supplying the limbs narrow or get obstructed.

Causes and risk factors of CVD

• The main causes of cardiovascular diseases are elevated blood pressure, increase in blood sugar, smoking, obesity, and raised levels of cholesterol.
• Individuals with African, Caribbean, or South Asian ancestry are more likely to suffer heart problems.
• Lifestyle choices and hereditary traits can both contribute to cardiovascular diseases.
• Family background is very important, especially if a close relative had heart disease before turning 55.
• Other risk factors consist of being a man, being older than fifty years old, eating poorly, and drinking too much alcohol, all of which can raise the levels of cholesterol and blood pressure.

Cardiovascular disease prevention strategies

• Keep your weight within a healthy range: Your chance of developing heart-related disorders can be decreased greatly by maintaining a BMI below 25.
• Take care of underlying medical issues: Make sure diseases like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar are appropriately managed and tracked.
• Follow a balanced diet: Eat more foods high in fibre, like fruits and vegetables, and less sugar, salt, and saturated fat. Try to eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
• Take part in regular physical activities: Strive for at least 2 hours of moderate-intensity exercise every week.
• Quit smoking and drink alcohol moderately: To help control your cholesterol level and blood pressure, limit your weekly alcohol intake to no more than 14 units every week.

Adopting a healthier lifestyle can considerably lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, improving health and general well-being.

For more information or to book a consultation, contact us at our clinic. Our expert cardiologists are here to provide personalised care and support. Prioritise your heart health and take the first step towards a healthier future. Get in touch with us today for cardiac care London.