Every year, 17.1 million lives are taken away due to tobacco use, an unhealthy diet, and physical inactivity. Factors which lead all lead to cardiovascular diseases, the world’s largest killer. Cardiovascular diseases affect all ages and gender; however, it is more perceptible in low and middle income countries, where more than 80% off cardiovascular related deaths occur. By the year 2030, approximately 23.6 million people will parish due to cardiovascular diseases, which is hypothesized to be mainly heart disease and stroke. There are people who don’t understand that only 30 minutes of physical activity everyday will lower their chances of gaining a heart disease; that by eating a better balanced diet, they can lower their risk of heart attacks and stroke; that maintaining their weight, they can live another day with less risks.
Heart diseases and strokes are the leading cardiovascular diseases. They are the result of a blockage that prevent s proper blood flow circulating around the heart or brain. Normally, these blockages consist of a buildup of fatty plaques, such as cholesterol, on the arteries’ inner walls that lead to the heart or brain. The process of plaque forming is known as atherosclerosis.
People who have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, sickle cell anemia, elevated red blood cell count, migraines/headaches, seizure disorder and/or have had a heart attack or stroke previously are at risk of having a stroke. There are lifestyle factors that contribute to stroke, such as an unbalanced diet, alcohol consumption, not enough exercise, and a family history of stroke. Thus, it is important to watch what you eat, exercise daily, and inform your doctor of you and your family’s medical history. There are some medications that may cause blood clots or brain hemorrhage, which leads to a stroke. It is important to notify your doctor if you have taken or currently taking