Causes of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)

Introduction

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a group of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels. It is a leading cause of death worldwide. Understanding its causes helps in prevention and early management.

Major Causes of CVD

1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

• Chronic high blood pressure forces the heart to work harder, leading to heart disease.
• Causes damage to blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

2. Atherosclerosis (Hardening of the Arteries)

• Occurs due to the buildup of cholesterol plaques in arteries.
• Leads to reduced blood flow and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

3. Diabetes

• High blood sugar damages blood vessels and nerves controlling the heart.
• Increases the risk of heart disease significantly.

4. Smoking

• Damages blood vessels and reduces oxygen in the blood.
• Increases the risk of blood clots and arterial blockages.

5. Obesity and Poor Diet

• High cholesterol, high sodium, and excessive calories contribute to CVD.
• Increased fat deposits can lead to hypertension and atherosclerosis.

6. Lack of Physical Activity

• Leads to obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
• Exercise helps maintain heart health by improving circulation and reducing stress.

7. Excessive Alcohol Consumption

• Can raise blood pressure and contribute to irregular heart rhythms.
• Increases fat buildup in the blood, worsening atherosclerosis.

8. Genetics and Family History

• Certain genetic factors increase susceptibility to cardiovascular diseases.
• If close family members have heart disease, the risk is higher.

9. Chronic Stress

• Long-term stress leads to high blood pressure and unhealthy behaviors (e.g., smoking, overeating).
• Stress hormones can damage blood vessels over time.

Conclusion

Cardiovascular disease is preventable in many cases. Lifestyle modifications such as healthy eating, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress can significantly reduce the risk. If you have risk factors, consult a doctor for early screening and management.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiovascular Prevention

1. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000678
2. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults
3. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements
4. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/how-to-help-prevent-heart-disease-at-any-age
5. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements/prevent-calculator

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Cardiovascular Disease Prevention

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/CVD-Prevention-Guidelines
2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/34/3227/6358713
3. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/CVD-and-Diabetes-Guidelines
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34458905/
5. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000678