“I’m too young to worry” or “it only affects men” are some of the myths we often hear associated with cardiovascular disease.
“May, Heart Month” is a series of initiatives created by the Portuguese Cardiology Foundation with the aim of alerting the population to the problem of cardiovascular disease.
With this article and another series of activities that will be carried out in May, SEPRI intends to join the initiative to help pass on the message of prevention and clarify some myths.
Cardiovascular disease risk factors
The main risk factors for cardiovascular disease, on which prevention can act:
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Sedentary lifestyle
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Hypertension
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Smoking
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Stress
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Obesity
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Diabetes
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Dyslipidemia
MYTHS ABOUT CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
ONLY AFFECTS MEN
Although men are more affected by cardiovascular disease at any age, women become vulnerable after the menopause.
In Portugal, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women.
I’M STILL VERY YOUNG
It’s a myth that young people are immune to the pathologies that affect the heart.
Although cardiovascular diseases are more common after the age of 60, there are several factors (some immutable, others controllable) and lifestyle habits that dictate heart health.
A family history of cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension or obesity are some diseases that increase the risk.
PLAYING SPORT CAN DAMAGE THE HEART
This myth arises from the fact that exercise raises the heart rate; however, the heart is a muscle and, as such, can and should be exercised.
It is important that physical exercise is adapted to the person’s physical condition, included in the lifestyle gradually and, whenever possible, supervised by a professional.
You should first talk to your doctor about adapting physical activity to your medical condition.
STRESS IS THE MAIN CAUSE OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
The link between stress levels and a greater likelihood of certain diseases has been proven.
However, it’s important to realize that it’s utopian to try to live a stress-free life and that we should instead find healthier ways of managing it.
Often, what is at the root of illness is not stress itself, but the behaviors we adopt as a result, such as smoking, drinking alcohol or eating unhealthy foods.
