Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally,
taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year. CVDs are a group
of disorders of the heart and blood vessels and include coronary heart
disease, cerebrovascular disease, rheumatic heart disease and other conditions.
More than four out of five CVD deaths are due to heart attacks and strokes, and
one third of these deaths occur prematurely in people under 70 years of
age.
The most important behavioural risk factors of heart disease and stroke are
unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use and harmful use of alcohol. Amongst
environmental risk factors, air pollution is an important factor. The effects
of behavioural risk factors may show up in individuals as raised blood
pressure, raised blood glucose, raised blood lipids, and overweight and
obesity. These “intermediate risks factors” can be measured in primary care
facilities and indicate an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, heart
failure and other complications.
Cessation of tobacco use, reduction of salt in the diet, eating more fruit
and vegetables, regular physical activity and avoiding harmful use of alcohol
have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Health policies
that create conducive environments for making healthy choices affordable and
available, as well as improving air quality and reducing pollution, are
essential for motivating people to adopt and sustain healthy behaviours.
Identifying those at highest risk of CVDs and ensuring they receive
appropriate treatment can prevent premature deaths. Access to noncommunicable
disease medicines and basic health technologies in all primary health care
facilities is essential to ensure that those in need receive treatment and
counselling.