You’d think that in a country like ours, the leading cause of death would be something quite different from what it is. The harsh reality though is that cardiovascular and related diseases take on average 210 people from South Africa each day. That is nearly 5 times more deaths per day than murders. Shocking, when you let that sink in.

Even more astounding when there is a lot that can be done to prevent it, not only on a personal level but at national level. While this is not a post about the economic difficulties a large portion of the population face, it is worth noting that better conditions with regard to food prices and choices would have a greatly positive impact.

On a personal level, paying close attention to your diet and lifestyle is the one thing that can help prevent disease. While it is hereditary in some cases, more often than not cardiovascular diseases are a direct result of poor nutrition, excessive stress and a sedentary lifestyle.

So what is cardiovascular disease?
Cardiovascular disease is a broad term for a number of conditions affecting the heart:

• Coronary Artery Disease - Most common is what is known as a heart attack – more accurately known as coronary artery disease which is the narrowing of arteries to the heart.
• Arrhythmia or abnormal heart rhythm
• Heart valve disease
• Congenital heart disease – problems with your heart at birth
• Cardiomyopathy is a type of progressive heart disease in which the heart is abnormally enlarged, thickened, and/or stiffened which impacts the heart’s ability to pump blood.
• Vascular disease which is basically blood vessel disease
• Heart failure – which occurs as a result of hypertension (high blood pressure) or any of the above.

What actions can you take?
Much of what you read below will not be news to you, but it’s always worth mentioning anyway.

• Stop smoking – just stop. Do whatever it takes but you’ll be better off in the long run
• Start exercising – being sedentary is one of the biggest risk factors. Get moving. You’ll benefit way more than just reducing your risk of heart disease.
• Reduce the stress – easier said than done in this day and age, but again, do what you have to. You’re no use to yourself or anyone when you’re stressed out and sick anyway.
• Eat right – this is a bit of a minefield because currently there is a lot of controversy about the right plan to follow, but do your research. You can’t go wrong with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables and proper, unprocessed foods.

At the end of the day, it is within your power and ability to at least reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. Don’t become a statistic. Rather act today!