The biggest cause of mortality in India, responsible for 28.1% of all fatalities, is heart disease. In India, heart disease is becoming more common, and by 2030, it is expected to overtake all other causes of death. Some common examples include rheumatic heart disease, congenital heart disease, ischemic heart disease, cyanotic congenital heart disease, etc.
Understanding the risk factors and taking precautions to treat the condition are crucial as the prevalence of heart disease grows. The risk factors for developing heart disease are covered in this blog post, along with lifestyle changes that may be made to reduce risk factors and the benefit of early detection.
Increased Prevalence of Heart Disease
The frequency of heart disease is rapidly increasing in India. In 1990, the age-standardized rate of heart disease mortality was 272 per 100,000 people. This accelerated to 386 per 100,000 people by 2019. It is important to adopt preventative steps in order to lessen the load of heart disease because it is anticipated that this trend will continue in the years to come.
Understanding the Risk Factors
Several risk factors are associated with heart disease. The few most relevant risks factors are discussed below:
Age, Gender, Ethnicity, and Family History
Age is a significant contributor to heart disease risk. People are more likely to acquire heart disease as they become older. Males are more prone than women to get heart disease, and those of South Asian heritage have a higher risk than people of other racial or ethnic backgrounds. Heart disease also has a relationship to family history. Those who have a family history of heart disease are more likely to get the condition themselves.
Lifestyle and Diet
Major risk factors for heart disease are diet and lifestyle habits. The risk of getting heart disease is increased by a sedentary lifestyle, a lack of exercise, and a diet heavy in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and salt. A diet rich in fruit and vegetables, healthy grains, and low-fat protein, on the other hand, can lower the risk of heart disease.
High Blood Pressure
Heart disease is significantly increased by high blood pressure. The heart has to work harder than usual due to high blood pressure, which can harm the organ and blood vessels.
Obesity
Heart diseases are often triggered by obesity. Obese or overweight people are more prone to acquire type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and risk factors for heart disease such as high cholesterol. Diet and exercise-based weight management can lower the risk of heart disease.
Diabetes
The presence of diabetes may cause heart disease. High blood sugar levels damage and hardens the blood vessels (atherosclerosis), leading to coronary heart disease. Diabetes raises a person’s chance of acquiring high blood pressure as well as elevated cholesterol, both of which can result in heart disease.
Smoking & Alcohol Consumption
Heart disease is significantly increased by smoking and drinking. Smoking harms blood vessels and increases the risk of atherosclerosis, a problem where the arteries constrict and obstruct, from developing. Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of heart disease and cause high blood pressure and irregular heartbeats.
Stress
Stress is a major risk factor for heart disease. Chronic stress can worsen the likelihood of heart disease and raise blood pressure.
Modifying lifestyle to Manage Risk Factors
Changes in lifestyle can aid in reducing the risk factors for heart disease. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and upholding a healthy body weight can all help lower the risk of developing heart disease. Including food items such as whole grains, fruits, nuts, seeds, etc. is advisable. Besides that, food items rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon) are great for heart health.
Managing the risk of heart disease can also be accomplished by giving up smoking and drinking less alcohol. Both smoking and alcohol increase the risk of heart disease by multiple folds. With the use of relaxation practices like yoga and meditation, chronic stress may be controlled.
Early Diagnosis is Critical
Effective care for cardiac disease depends on the early detection of heart disease symptoms. High-risk individuals for heart disease should get regular exams to keep an eye on their health. Stress tests and electrocardiograms (ECGs) are two diagnostic procedures that can aid in detecting cardiac disease in its early phases. Effective care and a decreased risk of complications can result from early diagnosis.
Conclusion
Heart disease is a significant health concern in India. Understanding the risk factors associated with heart disease and taking preventive measures to manage these risk factors can help reduce the burden of heart disease. If you are concerned about your risk of developing heart disease, speak to your healthcare provider about your options for preventive care. Ayu Health has some of the best healthcare services, ensuring the perfect heart health of the patients. Contact 6366100800 to learn more or book an appointment.
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About the Author
Dr. Magesh Balakrishnan
Dr. Magesh Balakrishnan is a renowned cardiologist currently practicing at Ayu Health, Bangalore.
He has 16 years of experience in this field. He has excellent skills in performing all cardiac diagnostic procedures/ tests. He has performed emergency and elective angiographies and angioplasties, device implantation (Pacemaker, AICD & CRT)