Heart Risks



Know the Risks 

The heart is an organ that requires an uninterrupted supply of blood and oxygen. Oxygenated blood are transported via the coronary arteries to the heart. 

A heart attack occurs when the coronary arteries are blocked. When this happens, fatty deposits build up, forming plaques in the arteries. If a plaque ruptures, blood clots can form and block the arteries, hence causing a heart attack.

Age/Gender/Genetic 

Every day, 19 people die from cardiovascular disease (heart diseases and stroke) in Singapore. Cardiovascular disease accounted for 31.7% of all deaths in 2019. This means that almost 1 out of 3 deaths in Singapore, is due to heart diseases or stroke according to Singapore Heart Foundation. 

Your heart and blood vessels are more susceptible to damage once you reach the age of 65. The changes that happen as you age can increase your risk of heart disease. Even though it is common, it said to be more prominent within males. Throughout life, heart attacks are twice more common in men than as women. 

In addition, a family history of heart disease is associated with a higher risk of coronary artery disease, especially if a close relative developed heart disease at an early age. 

Diet/Lifestyle

Eating healthy foods can help you recover and reduce your risk of more heart problems. A balanced heart healthy diet can decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease and risk factors, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. 

Ways to control your diet: 

  • Control your portion size 
  •  Eat more vegetables and fruits 
  • Select whole grains 
  • Limit unhealthy fats 
  • Choose low-fat protein sources 
  •  Reduce the salt (sodium) in your food 
     

A healthy lifestyle is one of the best weapons you have to fight cardiovascular problems. Being active is better than being sedentary. Allocate about at least 30 minutes a day to boost your heart health. Any sort of heart disease isn’t a sign you should back away from life and doing the things you like to do. It is a sign that you need to make your physical and mental health your priority. 

Looking for a Cardiology Specialist or Cardiothoracic Specialist? Find one from our panel. 

To learn more, reach out to us at +65 6363 1818 or send an enquiry here. Alternatively, you could also click here to make an appointment.