The Importance of Cardiovascular Health

The Importance of Cardiovascular Health

Western medicine is structured to manage diseases that are established in addition to complications resulting from these diseases.  Regarding atherogenesis which addresses the mechanisms by which we develop blockage in our arteries resulting in heart disease, strokes and limb loss, far less attention has been dedicated to the reduction of causative risk factors. 

Without the detail, smoking cessation in conjunction with the use of antiplatelet medications, hypertension control with limits rheological damage to the blood vessels, lowering of blood levels of proinflammatory atherogenic lipids through the uses of statins, niacin and other antilipid medications are the mainstay of prevention.  Survival advantage and adverse event reduction (heart attacks, strokes,… ) can be statistically demonstrated within one year of starting therapy.   This translates to a longer lifespan with a better quality of life. 

Regular physical exercise with a non atherogenic diet such as the Mediterranean diet complement an approach to a better life with reduced disease.   If you are inclined toward scripture, take this verse with you …

“Protect thy heart, from it flows the springs of life”  Proverbs 4:24