Heart Disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and is a major cause of disability. Almost 700,000 people die of heart disease in the U.S. each year. That is about 29% of all U.S. deaths. The National Institutes of Health reports that one in four American women dies of heart disease, and most fail to make the connection between risk factors—such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol—and their personal risk of developing heart disease.
Heart disease is a term that includes several more specific heart conditions. The most common heart disease in the United States is coronary heart disease, which can lead to heart attack. The risk of coronary heart disease maybe reduced by taking steps to prevent and control those adverse factors that put people at greater risk for heart disease and heart attack.
Additionally, knowing the signs and symptoms of heart attack, calling 911 right away, and getting to a hospital are crucial to the most positive outcomes after having a heart attack. People who have had a heart attack can also work to reduce their risk of future events.
Resources:
Heart Disease Signs and SymptomsHeart Disease FactsHeart Disease Fact Sheet |
Other Conditions and Related TermsHeart Disease FAQs |
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Men and Heart Disease Fact Sheet Women and Heart Disease Fact Sheet Around 5 million Americans have heart failure with around 550,000 new cases diagnosed each year. State Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Program Addresses High Blood Cholesterol Information on the nation’s leading cause of death. High Blood Pressure Fact Sheet This serious condition affects about 1 of 4 American adults. |
Fact SheetsAtrial Fibrillation Fact Sheet Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained heart rhythm disorder and increases the risk for heart disease and stroke. The National Cholesterol Education Program recommends that adults have their cholesterol levels checked at least every 5 years. Learn more now. Know the Signs and Symptoms of a Heart Attack According to the American Heart Association, about 650,000 Americans will have an initial heart attack, and another 450,000 had a recurrent heart attack in 2003. State Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Program Addresses Heart Attack Prevention State Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Program Addresses Cardiac Rehabilitation State Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Program Addresses High Blood Pressure Pulmonary Hypertension Fact Sheet A rare lung disorder in which the blood pressure in the pulmonary artery rises far above normal levels |