Heart survey results
The British Heart Foundation surveyed more than 2,000 people:
Only 2% were afraid of developing coronary artery disease.
90% wrongly believe high blood pressure comes with symptoms. The charity estimates up to seven million people have undiagnosed high blood pressure which increases their risk of strokes and heart attacks.
19% didn’t know that heart disease can be caused by smoking
34% didn’t know heart disease can lead to a stroke.
50% didn’t realise diabetes increase the risk of heart disease.
10% didn’t know how to look after their hearts.
Vital organ
In a statement, Dr Mike Knapton, the British Heart Foundation’s associate medical director says: “Your heart is the most vital organ in your body, but all too often we take it for granted. Despite being a largely preventable condition, coronary heart disease is still the UK’s single biggest killer, causing unnecessary heartache for thousands of families.”
The charity gives 10 tips for better heart health:
- Quit smoking
- For over 40s, have a free NHS health check
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Cut down on salt
- Eat your 5-a-day
- Cut down on saturated fat
- Always read the food labels to check for healthy foods
- Don’t drink too much alcohol
- Watch your portion sizes
By: Tim Locke
Source: webmd.com
