CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year. India has witnessed a steep rise in heart attack deaths over the past three years, with experts linking the trend to the lingering impact of the COVID -19 pandemic. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), there has been a staggering 12.5% increase in heart attack cases in 2022 alone.
The most important behavioural risk factors of heart disease and stroke are unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use and harmful use of alcohol. The effects of behavioural risk factors may show up in individuals as raised blood pressure, raised blood glucose, raised blood lipids, overweight and obesity. These “intermediate risk factors” can be
measured in primary healthcare facilities and indicatre an increase of heart attack, stroke, heart failure and other complications.
Cessation of tobacco use, reduction of salt in the diet, eating more fruit and vegetables, regular physical activity and avoiding harmful use of alcohol have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Health policies that create conducive environments for making healthy choices affordable and available are essential for motivating people to adopt motivating people to adopt and sustain healthy behaviours.
Identifying those at highest risk of CVDs and ensuring they receive appropriate treatment can prevent premature deaths. Access to non-communicable disease medicines and basic health technologies in all primary health care facilities is essential to ensure that those in need receive treatment and counselling.