Understanding Heart Disease: Public Unaware of Key Risk Factors, Survey Finds

Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S. and globally. Medical professionals attribute various conditions to heart disease, often involving plaque buildup within the artery walls. This buildup narrows arteries, restricting blood flow and increasing the risks of heart attack, stroke, and other serious conditions such as angina, arrhythmias, and heart failure. In response to this pervasive threat, fitness industry leaders are stepping up to promote physical activity as a fundamental preventative measure.

A recent survey conducted by Ipsos for El Camino Health revealed significant gaps in public knowledge about what affects heart health. The findings show that around 32% of adults do not recognize excessive alcohol consumption as a risk factor, while 27% overlook both smoking and insufficient sleep as contributors to heart disease.

"Up to 90 percent of cardiovascular diseases are preventable through healthy lifestyle behaviors," stated Frederick St. Goar, MD, medical director at the Norma Melchor Heart & Vascular Institute at El Camino Health. "Though diet and physical activity are crucial, our survey highlights a lack of awareness about other significant risk factors such as alcohol, smoking, and sleep."

The survey also highlighted a substantial underappreciation of the impact of social isolation and mental wellness on heart health, with two-thirds of adults (68%) unaware of the link between social isolation and heart disease and only about half (53%) recognizing mental wellness as a risk factor. This highlights the importance of prioritizing not only physical but also social and emotional well-being as part of a comprehensive approach to preventive health care.

As communities worldwide confront these health challenges, the fitness industry's role in promoting exercise and overall wellness becomes even more vital, offering hope and practical solutions in the battle against heart disease.

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