Number of cardiovascular diseases increasing at an alarming rate

About 24%-26% of the deaths among persons who are able to work in Moldova are caused by cardiovascular diseases and this figure is increasing at an alarming rate, the Ministry of Health says in a communiqué, quoted by Info-Prim Neo. Cardiovascular diseases are the world’s largest killers, claiming 17.3 million lives a year. In Moldova, they accounted for about 56% of the total deaths during the last ten years. The theme of World Heart Day 2011 marked on September 29 is "One World, One Home, One Heart". This theme appeals to individuals to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by choosing healthy eating habits, doing physical activities and quitting using tobacco. According to the World Health Organization, deaths from chronic diseases will rise by 15% until 2020 to 44 million cases worldwide. About 80% of the deaths projected to be caused by cardiovascular diseases and diabetes will happen in countries with low and medium incomes per capita, where currently 29% of the persons who die from noninfectious diseases are younger than 60, as against 13% in the countries with advanced economy. Risk factors for heart disease and stroke include raised blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels, smoking, inadequate intake of fruit and vegetables, overweight, obesity and physical inactivity. Engaging in healthy behaviors helps to control certain risk factors and prevent heart disease and stroke. The World Heart Day was instituted in 2001 by the World Heart Federation in partnership with the World Health Organization.