Coronary heart disease (CHD) is one of the main causes of death in the UK and worldwide, and is usually the cause of heart attack. There are a number of key medical risk factors including high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity and poor diet, that increase the risk of developing CHD and having a heart attack.
As part of our new campaign to raise awareness, Heart Research UK is encouraging women, of all ages, to take action to understand the risks and be aware of how they can take better care of their heart.
A heart attack is when the blood supply to parts of the heart muscle is cut off. It is usually caused by the blockage of a coronary artery which cuts off the supply of blood to the heart muscle. This starves the heart muscle of oxygen, and the heart may be permanently damaged.
In the 1960’s, more than 7 out of 10 heart attacks in the UK were fatal. Today, at least 7 out of 10 people survive a heart attack.
How to find out more about YOUR heart health
We have listed some advice below so you can be in charge of your own heart health and know where to get assistance and support.
1. Take advantage of NHS Health Checks
NHS Health Checks are offered to people between the ages of 40 and 74, every five years. Individual cardiovascular risk is calculated and explained, and information provided on how to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
NHS Health Checks can detect potential health problems early, so personalised advice on lifestyle changes can be given and treatment offered.
According to the NHS, during its first five years, the NHS Health Check is estimated to have prevented 2,500 heart attacks or strokes.
If you live in Scotland, you can visit your pharmacy to have your blood pressure and cholesterol checked. The Keep Well Programme also invites individuals aged 40 to 64 who live in areas of high deprivation to attend a health check.
2. Know your blood pressure
Have your blood pressure checked regularly, as high blood pressure is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. All adults over the age of 40 are advised to have their blood pressure checked at least every five years.
3. Where you can get your blood pressure checked
In addition to the NHS Health Checks service, you can also get your blood pressure tested at a number of other places up and down the country, including:
- your local GP surgery
- some pharmacies
- some workplaces
- home blood pressure monitoring
- some workplaces also offer this facility
Blood Pressure UK provides advice on where to get a free blood pressure check and they also host their annual ‘Know your numbers! Week’ in September where they place blood pressure stations throughout local community and health events.
Find out where you can get a blood pressure check.
If you have any concerns regarding your health, please speak to your doctor. You can call NHS 111 for non-urgent medical enquiries or call 999 for urgent, emergency medical attention.
The content of this website is for education and information only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.
Find out more about the campaign using the links below.
