In Singapore, coronary heart disease (CHD) is a significant health concern, just as it is worldwide. It is one of the leading causes of death, but how much do you know about what coronary heart disease is caused by? By understanding its causes, you can take proactive steps to reduce your risk. In this article, we’ll explore the root causes of CHD, the most common risk factors, and lifestyle changes you can make to protect your heart. Whether you’re concerned about family history or your own heart health, this guide will provide you with important, actionable advice.
Key Takeaways
- Coronary heart disease is caused by atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the coronary arteries.
- Risk factors include high cholesterol, smoking, lack of exercise, and a poor diet.
- You can lower your risk of CHD through lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, a healthy diet, and quitting smoking.
What Coronary Heart Disease is Caused By
- Plaque build-up (atherosclerosis): CHD is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, which narrows or blocks the coronary arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart.
- Role of cholesterol: High LDL cholesterol leads to plaque formation, which hardens arteries over time.
- Inflammation and blood clots: Chronic inflammation can cause plaque to rupture, triggering blood clots that may result in heart attacks.
Key Risk Factors That Increase Your Risk of Coronary Heart Disease
- Diet high in unhealthy fats and sodium: Diets high in saturated fats, trans fats, and sodium increase the risk of plaque formation.
- Smoking: Damages the lining of the arteries, encouraging plaque build-up and restricting oxygen supply to the heart.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity contributes to obesity, high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol.
- Age and family history: CHD risk increases with age, especially if there’s a family history of heart disease.
Lifestyle Changes Singaporeans Can Make to Reduce the Risk of CHD
- Heart-healthy diet: Emphasize locally available fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit fried and processed foods.
- Exercise regularly: Engage in moderate physical activities like brisk walking or swimming at least 150 minutes per week.
- Quit smoking: Reducing tobacco consumption can significantly lower CHD risk.
- Manage stress: Incorporate mindfulness, meditation, or yoga to help manage daily stress levels and improve heart health.
Conclusion
Coronary heart disease is caused by a build-up of plaque in the coronary arteries, often due to poor lifestyle habits. Risk factors like smoking, high cholesterol, and physical inactivity increase the likelihood of developing CHD. By making small, manageable lifestyle changes, you can significantly lower your risk of developing coronary heart disease. Taking proactive steps can lead to a healthier, longer life, with a reduced risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues.
FAQs
- What is the primary cause of coronary heart disease?
Coronary heart disease is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, where cholesterol and other substances build up in the coronary arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart. - Can coronary heart disease be prevented?
While you can’t change some risk factors like age or family history, you can significantly reduce your risk by making healthy lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising, and avoiding smoking. - How does smoking contribute to coronary heart disease?
Smoking damages the lining of your arteries, promotes plaque build-up, and reduces the oxygen supply to the heart, all of which increase your risk of developing CHD. - What are the early symptoms of coronary heart disease?
Early symptoms may include chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and fatigue, especially during physical activity. - How can I lower my cholesterol naturally?
You can lower your cholesterol through a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and weight management. Foods rich in fiber, such as oats and legumes, can help reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
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