The most important behavioral risk factors for heart disease and stroke are unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and harmful alcohol consumption. The effects of these behavioral risk factors can manifest in individuals as increased blood pressure, elevated blood sugar levels, high blood lipids, and overweight and obesity.
Harish, who lived in Delhi, had everything going well in his life. His diet and lifestyle were quite good. Even at the age of 45, he appeared very fit. However, he would occasionally experience mild chest pain, which he often ignored. But one day, the pain increased significantly. When home remedies did not provide relief, he had to be admitted to the hospital. The doctors conducted tests and informed that Harish had inflammation in his heart valve. Treatment began, and since the condition was not out of control, he recovered quickly. There was some financial difficulty, but he managed by borrowing money from friends and relatives.
Harish's story shows that serious illnesses often come without warning. They can affect even those who appear to be in good health. Many celebrities and actors have also bid farewell to the world at a young age due to heart-related diseases. Such diseases are generally caused by increasing age and a poor lifestyle. Most of these illnesses have available treatments, but it is essential to catch the disease early on. The longer the delay, the greater the risk and the higher the cost of treatment. Let’s understand what cardiovascular disease is and what its treatment entails.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD), also known as heart disease, affects the heart and blood vessels (arteries and veins). This disease can be very dangerous. In 2019, approximately 18 million people, accounting for 32% of global deaths, died due to heart disease. In India, around 25% of people lost their lives because of heart-related conditions.
Heart disease comes in various forms. In India, common types of heart disease include coronary, cerebrovascular, and rheumatic heart disease. Dr. Vinay Kumar Behl, Principal Director at Max Hospital, explains, "In India, coronary artery disease is typically seen in the affluent class. On the other hand, rheumatic heart disease mostly affects people with lower incomes."
Previously, coronary disease was primarily observed in individuals over the age of 40, but now younger people are also becoming susceptible to it.
Heart problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including: