Cardiovascular disease is the biggest killer of adults after cancer and is a common reason for premature death.
Over recent decades much has already been achieved in reducing the number of people dying from these conditions but many people still experience a reduced quality of life as a result or die prematurely.
The term includes coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease. Making positive lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of developing heart disease and related problems.
These include:
- Eating a low-fat, high-fibre healthy diet that includes at least five portions of fresh fruit and vegetables per day and reducing the levels of salt;
- Being active, including doing some vigorous exercise every week;
- Maintaining a healthy weight;
- Not smoking; and
- Drinking alcohol in moderation.
NHS Health Check
If you're aged 40-74 without a pre-existing condition, ask your GP about the NHS Health Check, a free five-yearly mid-life MOT to look for things like high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
One You - because there is only one you
Modern life makes it hard to be healthy. The good news is we can fight back. One You is here to help you get back to a healthier you. Making small changes now can improve your health right away and double your chances of staying healthy as you get older. It's never too late to start. You can find local services here.
The Change4Life website provides information and support on healthy eating, drinking less and local activities to help you become more active.
Additional information from NHS Choices
- Cardiovascular disease
- Coronary heart disease
- Healthy hearts
- NHS Health Check
- Heart age calculator
How healthy is your heart? Use this tool to find out if your heart age is higher or lower than your actual age.