Cardiovascular diseases are a major health concern in the UAE, affecting a significant number of individuals. According to recent studies, cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of death in the UAE, highlighting the need for increased awareness and prevention efforts.

What are cardiovascular diseases?

They are a group of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and many others.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms can vary depending on the specific condition, but common symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat. It is important to see a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms, as early diagnosis and treatment can be critical in managing the disease and preventing further damage.

What are the cardiovascular disease risk factors?

• One of the main risk factors is a sedentary lifestyle. Many individuals here lead inactive lifestyles due to long working hours and a lack of exercise facilities. This can lead to a higher risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity, which are all risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.
• Another significant risk factor is poor diet. The traditional Emirati diet is rich in fat and sugar, which can contribute to high cholesterol and obesity.
• Smoking and tobacco use are also major contributors to cardiovascular diseases. Studies have shown that smoking increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Get free medical help to quit smoking.
• Excessive alcohol intake can raise the chance of developing cardiovascular disease
• Chronic stress may raise the risk for cardiovascular disease.
• Other risk factors for cardiovascular diseases include age, family history, and underlying medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease. Individuals with these risk factors should be especially vigilant about monitoring their heart health.

8 Tips for preventing cardiovascular diseases

Prevention is key when it comes to cardiovascular diseases. Prevention and management involve making lifestyle changes, such as:

1. Maintaining a healthy diet can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Make sure you eat enough fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.
2. Getting regular exercise help to improve heart health by reducing the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
3. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk of developing these conditions.
4. Find ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or counseling.
5. Talk to your doctor about ways to control your blood pressure, including medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of both.
6. Work with your doctor to manage your blood sugar levels and take steps to control your diabetes.
7. Limit your intake to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
8. Get regular check-ups; regular medical check-ups can help identify and manage risk factors.

By following these tips and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and improve your overall health and well-being.