- By Prerna Targhotra
- Sun, 25 Aug 2024 04:48 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have emerged as a leading health concern globally, with a significant rise in incidence over the past few decades. This alarming trend is fueled by a complex interplay of lifestyle choices, environmental factors, and underlying health conditions. While advancements in medical science have improved the management of heart diseases, the surge in CVD cases underscores the need to address the root causes. Understanding and mitigating the major risk factors is crucial for reversing this trend and safeguarding public health.
In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr Nityanand Tripathi, Senior Director and HOD- Cardiology and Electrophysiology, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh explained about major risk factors that elevate the risk of heart diseases.
Risk Factors Of Heart Diseases
Sedentary Lifestyle
The modern, sedentary lifestyle has become a significant contributor to cardiovascular diseases. With increased reliance on technology and a decline in physical activity, people spend more time sitting at desks or engaging in screen-based entertainment. This lack of movement leads to weight gain, poor cardiovascular fitness, and increased risk of conditions like obesity, hypertension, and diabetes. Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining heart health, and its absence sets the stage for various cardiovascular problems.
Unhealthy Diet
Dietary habits have shifted dramatically, with a growing preference for processed and fast foods. These foods are often high in trans fats, sugars, and sodium, which contribute to weight gain, elevated cholesterol levels, and insulin resistance. A diet lacking in fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains further exacerbates the problem, leading to atherosclerosis, a major precursor to heart attacks and strokes. Adopting a balanced diet rich in nutrients is key to preventing the onset of cardiovascular diseases.
Risk Factors Of Heart Diseases (Image Credits: Canva)
Air Pollution
Air pollution is a silent but potent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Prolonged exposure to pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) can lead to chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and the acceleration of atherosclerosis. Studies have shown that even short-term exposure to polluted air can trigger heart attacks and other cardiovascular events. Reducing exposure to air pollution is critical for protecting heart health, especially in urban areas with poor air quality.
Stress and Mental Health
Chronic stress, whether from work, personal life, or societal pressures, has a profound impact on cardiovascular health. Stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which raise blood pressure and heart rate, leading to long-term damage to the heart and blood vessels. Furthermore, stress often drives individuals to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor eating habits, all of which exacerbate the risk of heart disease.
Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Despite widespread awareness of its dangers, smoking remains a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Smoking damages blood vessels, reduces oxygen supply, and promotes the formation of blood clots, all of which can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption is linked to high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy, and arrhythmias, further increasing the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Risk Factors Of Heart Diseases (Image Credits: Canva)
Diabetes and Hypertension
The prevalence of diabetes and hypertension has risen sharply, and both conditions are closely linked to cardiovascular diseases. Poorly managed diabetes can lead to vascular damage, while hypertension increases the strain on the heart, resulting in hypertensive heart disease, heart failure, and other serious cardiovascular events. Effective management of these conditions is crucial for reducing the overall burden of cardiovascular diseases.
The Path Forward
The rise in cardiovascular diseases is a complex issue influenced by a combination of lifestyle habits, environmental factors, and underlying health conditions. Tackling these risk factors requires a proactive approach, emphasising healthier living, greater public awareness, and timely medical interventions. By addressing these challenges head-on, we can make significant strides in reducing the burden of heart disease and improving overall health outcomes.