As the “2024 World Heart Day” approaches, it is essential to advocate for initiatives to improve heart health and prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD), the world’s leading cause of death. Dr. Monica Kher, a specialist in Cardiology at Aster Hospital, emphasizes the importance of early detection and risk assessment for cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines recommend routine assessment for adults aged 40 to 75 years and assessment of traditional CVD risk factors for younger adults aged 20 to 39 years.
The assessment of ASCVD risk is crucial for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Risk-Enhancing Factors that clinicians should assess include family history of premature ASCVD, primary hypercholesterolemia, metabolic syndrome, chronic kidney disease, chronic inflammatory conditions, history of premature menopause, high-risk race/ethnicity, and lipids/biomarkers associated with increased ASCVD risk. These factors form the foundation of primary prevention and early detection strategies.
The rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and hypertension in young individuals is a cause for concern. Preventive healthcare and innovative technology play a crucial role in creating awareness and offering solutions to combat this rising trend. Regular heart health screenings are essential for reducing cardiovascular risk and facilitating timely detection of CVD for early intervention and prevention of complications.
Cardiac health check-ups should include a battery of investigations such as routine urine and blood tests, electrocardiogram, two-dimensional echocardiography, exercise stress test, and imaging studies like CT coronary calcium score and CT Coronary angiography based on the patient’s risk profile and medical history. Lifestyle modifications, including a heart-healthy diet, regular physical activity, smoking cessation, control of diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and stress management, are essential for improving heart health.
Clinicians should have a good understanding of a patient’s estimated ASCVD risk, selective use of appropriate investigations, and patient-centered care. While screening may seem unnecessary for asymptomatic healthy individuals, it can prevent fatal outcomes of undiagnosed heart disease. Evidence suggests that people who undergo health checks are more likely to receive interventions to address risk factors, highlighting the effectiveness of preventive measures in reducing longer-term health issues.
On this World Heart Day, with the theme of “Use Heart for Action,” it is crucial to prioritize heart health through early detection and treatment to empower the prevention of heart disease. Your heart deserves the best care, and as the saying goes, a healthy heart is a gift you give yourself. By taking proactive steps to prioritize heart health and undergo regular screenings, individuals can reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease and lead a healthy, fulfilling life.
