Tragically, heart disease is the most common cause of death in Ireland. Approximately 10,000 people die each year from cardiovascular diseases (CVD), with 22% of premature deaths being caused by CVD (HSE, 2017).
The World Health Organisation (2018) define Cardiovascular Disease as a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels including:
● coronary heart disease – disease of the blood vessels supplying the heart muscle;
● cerebrovascular disease – disease of the blood vessels supplying the brain;
● peripheral arterial disease – disease of blood vessels supplying the arms and legs;
● rheumatic heart disease – damage to the heart muscle and heart valves from rheumatic fever, caused by streptococcal bacteria;
● congenital heart disease – malformations of heart structure existing at birth;
● deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism – blood clots in the leg veins, which can dislodge and move to the heart and lungs.
Fortunately, a number of these conditions are preventable. Here at AMS, we are passionate about heart health. As an organisation focused on preventative heart health care we believe in identifying possible health issues and making changes to help people live a healthier life. To support this aim, we provide mobile Cardiac screening to identify any possible CDV triggers giving individuals the knowledge to make changes to tackle this disease head-on.
If you are interested in arranging a preventative health screening call our team oo 1890 300 333 or email us on info@ameds.ie for more information.
The focus of the World Heart Foundation this year is ‘my heart, your heart’ a message which encourages individuals and communities around the world for focus on the question “what can I do right now to look after my heart… and your heart?” The WHF are campaigning to encourage communities to work together to inspire everyone to make changes to their behaviour which will improve their heart health.
There are several changes that can be made to improve your heart health to reduce the chance of heart disease or stroke. A few of these changes include:
– Eating a healthy balanced diet
– Keep to a healthy weight
– Reduce your alcohol consumption
– Give up smoking
– Be more physically active
To celebrate this year the AMS staff will be focusing on getting up and out of our chairs and staying active. Thursday the 27th September is National Heart Day and we will be celebrating this by going for a team walk around our local area. Why don’t you encourage your friends, family or community to join you in a healthy heart activity?