Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular diseases are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels.

They are classified as:
– Systemic arterial hypertension (high blood pressure)
– Coronary heart disease (myocardial infarction)
– Cerebrovascular disease (stroke)
– Peripheral vascular disease
– Heart failure
– Rheumatic heart disease
– Congenital heart disease
– Cardiomyopathies

The World Heart Federation (WHF) classifies cardiovascular disease as the biggest killer, as it claims 17.5 million lives worldwide each year, representing 30% of all registered deaths globally. Of these deaths, approximately 7.4 million were due to coronary heart disease, and 6.7 million to strokes.

It is estimated that by 2030, nearly 23.6 million people will die from cardiovascular disease, mainly due to heart disease and stroke.

The following factors are considered to contribute to the onset of these diseases:
– Poor diet: is responsible for nearly 44,000 cardiovascular deaths annually.
It is recommended to have a balanced diet, including vegetables, fruits, legumes, and fish. Avoid saturated fats and trans fats.

Lack of exercise (sedentary lifestyle): is associated with 10% of premature deaths, especially cardiovascular ones.
Frequent physical activity is important for cardiovascular health. Perform at least 20 minutes of moderate exercise daily, which can be increased according to physical tolerance and supervised by your doctor.

– Smoking (Tobacco use): causes around 15,000 heart-related deaths each year. It is one of the worst enemies of cardiovascular health. Stop smoking. Or reduce the habit of smoking as much as possible.

By correcting these negative factors, one gains health and quality of life.

These diseases are predicted to remain the leading cause of death.

Remember: it is preferable to prevent diseases than to correct them.

Dr. Juan José Gómez Ramos
Clinical Cardiologist
U.N.A.M./ Hospital Juárez / Instituto Nacional De Cardióloga Ignacio Chavez
C Prof. 172794 / C Esp. 3167060