(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)According to a report by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the leading causes of death in the emirate with one in every five deaths attributable to cardiovascular disease. The report concluded that physical inactivity unhealthy lifestyle habits and a lack of awareness were linked to the incidence of CVD.
"Lack of awareness in the community is one of the key concerns along with lifestyle-related factors" said Dr Stanley George Specialist Cardiologist at Medeor 24x7 Hospital in Dubai. He added that many people suffering from CVD don't take timely action because they are unaware of the symptoms or don't realise the importance of seeking medical attention for some of the risk factors and symptoms that manifest early on. This for many could be the difference between life and death. A lot of people believe that having their diabetes under control will help keep heart disease at bay. "Treating diabetes can reduce the risk of CVD developing. However risk factors that lead to diabetes are also those that can cause CVD. Other factors such as obesity high blood pressure smoking and lack of exercise only exacerbate the problem" said Dr George. Getting cholesterol levels checked is also a good idea and the earlier the better. High cholesterol levels are a risk factor for CVD and people often think they do not need to check those levels until they cross 30 or 35 years of age. However it is prudent to start checking it in one's 20s especially if there is a family history of the same emphasized Dr. George. Another myth is that people relate heart attacks generally with chest pain. That isn't true according to Dr. George. "While it's common to have chest pain or discomfort symptoms of a heart attack can also cause shortness of breath nausea feeling lightheaded and pain in the jaw neck or back" he added. A common myth related to CVD is that it's a man's disease. However according to the American Heart Association heart disease is the number one killer of women causing one in three deaths each year. That's a serious number so regardless of gender get regular check-ups that include tests for cholesterol and blood pressure as a preventive measure. Getting regular check-ups especially if there's a family history of CVD increased awareness of the risks of the disease lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking exercising more and eating a healthy diet are factors that can prevent the onset of CVD. "Cardiovascular disease is a growing problem in Dubai and other cities in the region. At Medeor 24x7 Hospital we believe in offering the best treatment for the diagnosis treatment and maintenance of CVD. We are also committed to spreading awareness about heart disease and other related conditions within the community and continue offer healthcare that is on par with international standards" said Dr. Shajir Gaffar CEO of VPS Healthcare - Dubai and Northern Emirates.
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