19.2M Lives Lost: Hidden Heart Risks

Cardiovascular disease remains the world's leading cause of death, claiming an estimated 19.2 million lives in 2023. This staggering number highlights the importance of understanding the underlying factors that contribute to heart disease, even among seemingly fit individuals.

According to Dr Rahul Chawla, a neurologist, there are several factors to consider when assessing the risk of heart attacks. One key factor is genetic predisposition, with 1 in 5 people carrying a hidden genetic heart risk due to high levels of inherited cholesterol particles. Elevated Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] may also contribute to cardiovascular risk that remains even after standard treatment.

Physical inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle are also significant contributors to the risk of noncommunicable diseases and all-cause mortality. In fact, for every 10-beat-per-minute increase in resting heart rate, there is a 17% increase in all-cause mortality. Furthermore, conditions like cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome can increase the risk of heart disease, with 90% of Americans having at least one risk factor for CKM syndrome.

The prevalence of obesity is also a concern, with over 100 million Americans affected and a projected doubling of this number by 2050 due to an increasingly sedentary lifestyle and a diet that relies on processed foods. Obesity is a risk factor for every facet of CKM syndrome, making it essential to address this issue to reduce the risk of heart disease.

## Why it matters The high number of deaths due to cardiovascular disease, including 70,000 in Thailand in 2022, equivalent to about eight deaths every hour, highlights the need for early intervention and recognition of underlying conditions. Specialists emphasize that heart failure is not just a disease, but the result of many underlying heart conditions, including coronary artery disease, inherited heart disease, valve disorders, infections, and chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and kidney disease.

Early recognition of warning signs and seeking medical attention before the condition progresses can help prevent or detect heart disease earlier. It is crucial to view heart failure not as a point of no return, but as a condition that can be managed with proper diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle changes. By understanding the underlying factors that contribute to heart disease, individuals can take steps to reduce their risk and improve their overall health.