Heart Disease Flashcards
What is the prevalence of coronary heart disease (CHD) in men and women in the UK?
About one in five men and one in eight women die from CHD in the UK.
What is the estimated economic impact of CHD on the UK economy?
CHD results in £13 billion per year in lost earnings to the UK economy.
What are some treatments available for CHD?
Right treatment includes stent insertion, by-passes, and medication such as aspirin.
What is the estimated annual cost of CHD to the UK?
CHD costs the UK an estimated £7 billion a year, which is more than 7 times greater than previous estimates.
This figure includes informal costs such as care provided by families.
What positive impact can recovering from a heart attack have?
People who recover from a heart attack may encourage others to live a healthier lifestyle.
What dietary changes can help reduce strain on the heart?
Eating a better diet with less fatty foods and cholesterol reduces strain on the heart.
What initiatives support healthier eating in schools?
Free school meals for pupils and the Scottish Government’s ‘Eat Better, Feel Better’ campaign help promote healthier eating.
What is encouraged to help lower blood pressure?
People are encouraged to take more exercise, such as through the cycle to work scheme.
What is a cause of heart disease related to exercise?
Lack of exercise raises blood pressure and cholesterol, which can lead to people becoming overweight, putting additional strain on the heart.
How does smoking contribute to heart disease?
Nicotine increases heart rate and blood pressure due to tar constricting the arteries, causing the heart to work harder and require more oxygen. Smokers do not inhale as much oxygen while smoking, putting the heart under extra strain.
What role does genetic inheritance play in heart disease?
People can inherit high blood pressure and high cholesterol from their parents, making them more likely to suffer from a heart attack.
How does stress affect heart health?
Stress increases blood pressure, putting pressure on the heart. People under stress often indulge in ‘comfort eating’, consuming unhealthy foods that can also cause heart disease.
What is the impact of a fatty diet on heart disease?
A diet high in fatty foods increases cholesterol levels, narrowing the arteries and increasing the chance of heart disease. Fatty foods can also lead to obesity, which puts extra strain on the heart.
How can mental health affect heart disease?
Mental health issues can lead to depression as a result of having a near-death experience, such as a heart attack.
