Cardiovascular disease kills more people than any other disease in India. According to the Lancet journal, death due to cardiovascular diseases almost doubled in India between 1990 and 2016 from 1.3 million to 2.8 million deaths. It is the high time that preventive aspect of cardiovascular disease need to be given top priority. According to World Health Organization (WHO) 80% of heart disease and stroke can be prevented by timely interventions.
Poor management
Around 75% of cases of cardiovascular disease can be predicted by established risk factors – which include sedentary life style, tobacco use, escalated blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes, Obesity. This is the prime time that, Primary Physicians need to give more time and speak about these risk factors to all patients who visit their clinic. Those above 35 years must undergo preventive health check-up once in a year.
Diabetes and Hypertension in a patient are deadly combination and have emerged as major risk factors whose presence multiply and increases the risk of heart disease. Good control of Diabetes, Hypertension with timely medication, exercise and regular follow-up with specialists can remarkably reduce the burden of heart disease in the country. The delayed diagnosis and treatment is significantly responsible for the development of heart disease among a large number of people in India.
Delayed diagnosis
Acceptance and adherence to medical advice and regular medication regime, by and large is poor in India. Indian population usually easily do not accept that he is Diabetic or Hypertensive. Even if diagnosed they do not regularly follow-up with Doctors. The worst part is He/She come to hospital when they suffer heart attack or stroke. This trend can be reversed by improving access to effective preventive interventions at the primary health care level. But, majority of the patients do not visit government managed Primary Health Centers. The time is ripe to begin the process of instituting strong preventive mechanisms to manage risk factors will have a substantial impact in reversing the explosion of disease and preventing complications such as heart attack, stroke and kidney disease.
Leveraging of primary healthcare facilities and creating awareness among masses is key to reverse the trend of heart disease. High-risk group of people in the community must be targeted and are referred to District Hospital/Higher Centres for further evaluation and counseling.
Best Way to Prevent Heart Disease:
1. Brisk Walk of 3-4 Kms at least 5 days in week (Consult Physician and take advise)
2. Manage Diabetes and Hypertension by regular exercise, diet and medication.
3. Control your Lipids, stay away from junk food, alcohol and quit smoking.
4. Visit your Doctor and follow his/her advice. Reduce your stress level by meditation
Compiled by Mr. Pramod N Sulikeri , 98443 66188
