What is Cardiovascular Disease?
Cardiovascular diseases, also known as heart diseases, are a group of disorders involving the heart or blood vessels that affect the ability of the heart to pump or supply oxygenated blood to other parts of the body. These include coronary artery disease, arrhythmias and congenital heart defects, among others. Some of these conditions can cause chest pain, heart attack and stroke. Risk factors for developing these conditions include smoking, high cholesterol levels, hypertension and diabetes.
Who Can Get Cardiovascular Disease?
Although anyone can get cardiovascular disease, certain groups are at greater risk. People over the age of 65, especially those with a family history of heart disease, are more likely to develop these conditions. In addition, people who eat unhealthy diets or lead sedentary lifestyles, or who smoke or otherwise abuse alcohol or drugs, are also more prone to developing cardiac issues.