Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is an umbrella term referring to all diseases of the heart and blood vessels. These diseases can be thought of as a ‘family’, sharing many of the same risk factors.
CVD can then be divided into two categories: heart disease (involving the heart) and vascular disease (involving the blood vessels). Both of these categories are also groups of diseases.
The total healthcare costs relating to CVD are estimated at £9 billion each year (£138 per person).
Coronary heart disease (CHD) is when the coronary arteries that supply the heart muscle with blood become narrowed or blocked due to a gradual build-up of fatty material. This is the most common type of cardiovascular disease and the most common cause of heart attack.
CHD generally affects more men than women, but from the age of 50 the chances of developing this disease are similar for both sexes. Click on the buttons to find out more about the specific conditions.
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.