17.9
Cardiovascular disease kills 17.9 million people worldwide each year.
31%
Cardiovascular disease accounts for 31% of New Zealand deaths each year.
#1
Cardiovascular disease is the #1 killer, both worldwide and in New Zealand.
It should go without saying that your heart—and the cardiovascular system as a whole—is one of the most important organs in your body. We know...Captain Obvious and all that. Despite the fact that this fact should be obvious, cardiovascular disease numbers are still sky-high. Clearly, just knowing isn't quite enough.
When we talk about heart health, we're referring to the entire cardiovascular system. This includes your veins, arteries, and everything that helps blood circulate through your body. Given the size and complexity of this system, there's a lot that can go wrong. There's heart attack, stroke, hypertension, arrhythmia, and so much more.
This month, the NZ Heart Foundation wants you to focus on your heart health, and so do we!
What is Cardiovascular Disease?
The cardiovascular system is made up of three key components: the heart, blood vessels, and blood. Cardiovascular disease is a general term used to describe a broad group of conditions that affects any of these components. This includes both acute (immediate) and chronic (long-term) conditions. Some common heart problems include hypertension, heart attack, coronary artery disease, and cardiomyopathy.
17.9
Cardiovascular disease kills 17.9 million people worldwide each year.
31%
Cardiovascular disease accounts for 31% of New Zealand deaths each year.
#1
Cardiovascular disease is the #1 killer, both worldwide and in New Zealand.
Top Heart Disease Risk Factors
This might come as a surprise to some of you, but you have more control over your heart disease risk than you might expect. Most heart disease risk factors stem from lifestyle decisions:
-Low physical activity
-Poor nutrition choices
-Smoking
-Excess body weight
You have the power to substantially cut your cardiovascular disease risk by changing your lifestyle. Move more, eat better, quit smoking, and lose weight. Of course, this is easier said than done, but even a small change can have a great impact on your life.
Check out the NZ Heart Foundation for more information on managing your risk.
Top Heart Disease Risk Factors
This might come as a surprise to some of you, but you have more control over your heart disease risk than you might expect. Most heart disease risk factors stem from lifestyle decisions:
You have the power to substantially cut your cardiovascular disease risk by changing your lifestyle. Move more, eat better, quit smoking, and lose weight. Of course, this is easier said than done, but even a small change can have a great impact on your life.
Check out the NZ Heart Foundation for more information on managing your risk.
Heart Attack Warning Signs
Movies and TV shows portray heart attacks as dramatic events that would cause any onlooker to yell, "heart attack!" While that may sometimes be the case, heart attacks often express themselves with mild and varied symptoms.
Sensation
Location
Other Symptoms
Keep Your Heart Happy
Regular Exercise
Healthy Eating
Smart Lifestyle Choices
Educated Supplementation