Cardiovascular disease is one of the most common causes of death in Australia. An Australian dies from heart disease every 23 minutes. In New Zealand, it is the leading cause of death, many of which are premature and preventable. A New Zealander dies from heart disease every 90 minutes, which equates to about 16 deaths per day.
What is Cardiovascular Disease?
Cardiovascular disease encompasses all the terms used to describe all diseases and conditions involving the heart and blood vessels.
What are the risk factors?
There are risk factors that you cannot change, such as your ethnicity, your family history and your age. You may also not be able to change some of your medical history that has been and gone. However, it is never too early or too late to address factors you can change. What you do for your body is your insurance policy for your health. It is long term, it is a journey, and the benefits may not be immediate. If a medical condition does occur, at least you can reassure your heart that you have done what you can do, and then progress on to know what you can do to manage it.
How do I get checked?
Visit your GP, and they can do the necessary examinations and organise for blood tests. They will advise you on how often your checks should be. If appropriate, having it around your birthday may also be easier to remember. Consider it a present for your soul, for a peace of mind. The earlier the detection, the better. You wouldn’t drive a car out without an up to date warrant of fitness. Do your body the same justice, keep your heart WOF in check.
Once you know your blood pressure and cholesterol, you can also check your heart age forecast here.
Once you know your blood pressure and cholesterol, you can also check your heart age forecast here.
