Exposure to heart disease risks increased: HPA

Health Protection Agency (HPA) said today that the risks of developing heart disease in the country's population have increased.

In a report published by the agency on the occasion of World Heart Day, HPA said that a step-survey conducted between 2020 and 2022 to understand the risks of non-communicable diseases in the country showed that 4.7 percent of the country's population aged between 15-65 years have been diagnosed with heart diseases, stroke and angina.

Out of which, 27.7 percent patients are on long-term medication.

Assessments of heart disease risk among the study participants showed that 2.3 percent of people aged 40-69 years were at risk of heart disease within 10 years. 7.7 percent of people have a 10-20 percent risk of developing heart disease, the study also showed.

Based on the study, HPA said people are becoming increasingly more exposed to the risk of heart disease. Because of this, focusing on preventative measures would make it easier to identify heart disease risks, take early action, and improve overall health, the agency added.

Measures that can be taken to avoid risk of heart disease

- Paying attention to cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar levels

- Check blood pressure (high blood pressure is the biggest risk factor of heart disease. It is a leading cause of sudden death. If blood pressure is not checked regularly, individuals' are more likely to be at risk without any apparent symptoms

- Regularly consult with doctors and check blood cholesterol levels

- Regularly monitor weight to make sure BMI is within appropriate range

- Include vegetables, fruits and proteins in diet and reduce fat and cholesterol high food

- Exercise and stay active

- Engage in at least 150 minutes of either walking, swimming, cycling or aerobic exercise

- Avoid smoking

HPA also highlighted that heart disease poses many psychological and financial challenges for the patient and their families as well.

Citing research by the World Heart Federation, HPA recommends lifestyle changes to reduce the percentage of death and disability from heart disease.