Heart disease is the leading cause of death globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 17.9 million people die each year from heart disease, accounting for one-third of all global deaths. Despite its prevalence, there are still some lesser-known facts about heart disease that people are not aware of. In this article, we will explore three such things that are not well known.
Heart Disease Facts 1: Women and Heart Disease
It is a common misconception that heart disease is a men's disease. However, this is not true. Women are equally vulnerable to heart disease as men. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, accounting for one in every five female deaths. Unfortunately, women are more likely to have a heart attack without the classic symptoms that men experience. The symptoms of heart disease in women can be more subtle and include shortness of breath, nausea, back, jaw, or neck pain, and fatigue.
Heart Disease Facts 2: Mental Health and Heart Disease
The connection between mental health and heart disease is not widely known. However, studies have shown that mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression can increase the risk of heart disease. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), depression and anxiety are both associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Furthermore, people with depression tend to have other risk factors for heart disease such as obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Therefore, it is essential to address mental health issues in addition to other risk factors for heart disease.
Heart Disease Facts 3: Social Connections and Heart Disease
Social connections are critical for our mental and physical health. However, few people know that having strong social connections can also reduce the risk of heart disease. According to the AHA, people with strong social connections have a lower risk of heart disease and are more likely to recover faster if they have a heart attack. On the other hand, social isolation and loneliness are associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Therefore, it is essential to maintain strong social connections with friends and family to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Conclusion
Heart disease is a significant health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. While there are some well-known risk factors for heart disease such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol. And smoking, there are also some lesser-known facts that people should be aware of. Women are equally vulnerable to heart disease as men, mental health disorders can increase the risk of heart disease. And strong social connections can reduce the risk of heart disease. Therefore, it is essential to address all the risk factors, including those that are not well known. To prevent heart disease and improve overall health.
Remember to take care of your heart by living a healthy lifestyle, getting regular check-ups. And seeking medical attention if you experience any symptoms of heart disease.
