Are heart issues only age related? Chest pains always mean heart attack? Here are few myths and facts to set it straight.
Heart disease, the world’s leading killer, claims millions of lives annually. Despite its prevalence, numerous misconceptions surround this condition, hindering awareness, prevention, and effective management. Recognising these myths is crucial for promoting heart health.
Myth 1: Heart Disease Only Affects Older Adults
Fact: Heart disease affects people of all ages. Factors like family history, obesity, smoking, and physical inactivity increase risk across all age groups.
Myth 2: Heart Disease is a Man’s Disease
Fact: Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, accounting for 1 in 3 female deaths. Women’s symptoms often differ from men’s, leading to delayed diagnosis.
Myth 3: Chest Pain Always Accompanies a Heart Attack
Fact:Only 50% of heart attack victims experience chest pain. Others may feel shortness of breath, fatigue, or unusual pain in the arms, back, or jaw.
Myth 4: Heart Disease is Solely Caused by Genetics
Fact:: Lifestyle factors like smoking, physical inactivity, and poor diet significantly contribute to heart disease risk.
Myth 5: Heart Disease is Inevitable
Fact: 80% of heart disease cases can be prevented through lifestyle changes, such as:
- Regular exercise (at least 150 minutes/week)
- Balanced diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
- Stress management (meditation, yoga, deep breathing)
- Quitting smoking
- Monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol
Myth 6: Normal Blood Pressure Guarantees Safety
Fact:: Other risk factors, like diabetes, obesity, and family history, can still lead to heart disease.
Myth 7: Surgery is Always Necessary
Fact:: Lifestyle changes, medication, and non-invasive procedures (e.g., angioplasty) can manage many heart disease cases.
Heart disease is preventable and treatable. Knowing your risk factors, adopting healthy habits, and consulting your healthcare provider can save lives.
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