REDFEB 2025: Heart Health Awareness Month
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Professor Rajesh Subbiah, the Director of Cardiac Electrophysiology and Pacing at St Vincent’s Private and Public Hospital, holds the position of Conjoint Professor of Medicine at the University of New South Wales and Faculty at the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute. His expertise extends to St Vincent’s Clinic, where he dedicates his efforts to addressing heart rhythm disorders, catheter ablation, and complex cardiac device implantation. Professor Subbiah’s team also provide cardiac device outreach services for regional NSW, including Tamworth, Wagga Wagga and Griffith.
Beyond his clinical responsibilities, Professor Subbiah actively collaborates with his esteemed colleagues at the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute. Together, they delve into the intricate cellular and molecular mechanisms that underpin cardiac arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. At the clinical research level, Professor Subbiah has made significant contributions to clinical trials and has spearheaded collaborative research initiatives with global leaders in prestigious centres, including Canada.
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How does cardiovascular disease impact Australia?
Cardiovascular disease stands as one of the leading causes of death in our nation, affecting millions of lives annually. It encompasses a range of conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, cardiac arrhythmias, sudden cardiac death, and high blood pressure. These conditions not only strain our healthcare system but also lead to long-term disability and reduced quality of life.
In fact, nearly one in five Australians is grappling with some form of cardiovascular disease. Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption are significant contributors to the rising cases of this silent epidemic.
Consequently, both individuals and communities face substantial emotional, financial, and social challenges. However, with heightened awareness, preventive measures, and early intervention, there is hope for mitigating the impact of this pervasive health issue.
Can investing in research improve cardiovascular outcomes?
Investing in research holds immense potential in improving cardiovascular outcomes. Research and funding are pivotal in advancing treatments, identifying early detection methods, and developing preventive strategies. As cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death and disability globally, ongoing research sheds light on its intricate causes, encompassing genetic predispositions, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices.
Investing in cardiovascular disease research is essential for advancing medical science and reducing long-term healthcare costs. It fuels the development of innovative technologies, medications, and interventions that can save lives and improve quality of life. Adequate funding ensures that researchers have the resources to explore these avenues in-depth, conduct large-scale clinical trials, and translate findings into practical solutions.
How can we prevent cardiovascular disease?
Preventing cardiovascular disease and detecting it early are both crucial, but prevention holds the greatest potential for reducing its impact in Australia. Prevention focuses on addressing modifiable risk factors such as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. It promotes heart-healthy habits through public health campaigns and community programs. This approach significantly reduces the overall incidence of cardiovascular disease. Early detection complements prevention by identifying risks or conditions like high blood pressure or cholesterol before symptoms develop, allowing timely intervention to prevent severe outcomes. Fostering a culture of proactive heart health can substantially reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease.
Certain dietary patterns and foods play a vital role in reducing the risk of heart disease in Australia. Adopting heart-healthy dietary patterns is crucial. The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, has been proven to significantly lower cardiovascular risks. Including fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel, at least twice a week provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Australians should also prioritize foods high in dietary fiber, like legumes.
On the other hand, it’s crucial to limit foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as processed meats, pastries, and fried fast foods, as they contribute to high cholesterol and clogged arteries. Reducing salt intake, often concealed in processed and packaged foods, can help prevent high blood pressure. Similarly, moderating sugar-laden foods and beverages is essential, as excessive sugar consumption can lead to obesity and metabolic issues, increasing the risk of heart disease.
To protect their hearts and improve overall health, Australians can empower themselves by adopting a shift towards whole, minimally processed foods and being mindful of portion sizes.
How much exercise is needed to reduce heart disease risk?
Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of heart disease. Even moderate activity can make a significant difference. Australian health guidelines recommend at least 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, or 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity, like running or aerobics, per week. Alternatively, combining both intensities in shorter bouts is equally effective. Strength training exercises at least twice a week are also important,
as they help improve heart health by reducing blood pressure, cholesterol, and body fat while enhancing circulation and overall fitness.
Beyond these recommendations, even small, consistent efforts like walking more, taking the stairs, or engaging in active hobbies can positively impact heart health. Regular exercise not only lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease but also enhances mental well-being, boosts energy levels, and contributes to a higher quality of life.
Support medical research today: https://svcrf.com.au/donation/