CHD Flashcards
(30 cards)
How prevalent is Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) globally?
CHD is the leading global cause of death, accounting for approximately 7.5 million deaths annually.
Why do CHD rates vary across countries?
Rates vary due to differing levels of risk factors such as air pollution, poor diet, physical inactivity, and smoking.
What causes a heart attack in CHD?
A heart attack occurs when arteries are blocked, reducing oxygen supply to heart muscles.
How does air quality affect CHD risk?
Poor air quality, especially particulate pollution from transport and industry, increases the risk of CHD.
How does rural vs. urban air quality influence CHD?
Rural areas may have cleaner air, potentially reducing CHD risk, but evidence is not conclusive.
What climate factors are linked to CHD in the UK?
Colder, less sunny regions show higher CHD mortality, even when adjusted for deprivation. Cold/damp weather strains the cardiorespiratory system.
How does terrain (relief/topography) impact CHD?
Hilly areas may encourage physical activity (which reduces risk), but may also strain people with heart conditions.
What socio-economic factor has a major influence on CHD in developed countries?
Lifestyle and deprivation are more significant than the physical environment.
How does deprivation influence CHD in the UK?
CHD death rates are 3x higher in deprived boroughs (e.g., Tower Hamlets) compared to wealthier areas (e.g., Kensington).
How much does smoking increase CHD risk?
Smoking increases CHD mortality by 60%.
What is the role of alcohol in CHD in men (developed countries)?
About 2% of CHD in men is related to alcohol consumption.
What percentage of heart attacks in Western Europe are linked to hypertension?
22% of heart attacks are associated with high blood pressure.
How does high cholesterol contribute to CHD in Western Europe?
It’s responsible for 45% of heart attacks.
What dietary factors raise CHD risk?
Diets high in fat, salt, and sugar increase the risk of CHD.
How does obesity impact CHD risk?
Obesity is a major independent risk factor for CHD.
How does diabetes affect CHD risk?
Diabetes increases CHD risk by 2 to 5 times.
How significant is inactivity as a CHD risk factor?
Over 20% of CHD in developed countries is due to lack of exercise.
What ethnic patterns are seen in CHD risk in the UK?
South Asian populations have higher premature CHD death rates, while Afro-Caribbean groups have lower rates.
How does genetics affect CHD risk?
A family history of CHD doubles the risk.
How does urbanisation in developing countries increase CHD risk?
Urbanisation leads to poor housing, healthcare access, limited green space, pollution, sedentary lifestyles, poor diets, and tobacco/alcohol marketing.
What is a health consequence of crowded urban living?
Increased exposure to infectious diseases (e.g., rheumatic fever), which can lead to heart disease.
What are the health impacts of CHD?
CHD can cause angina, heart attacks, and heart failure, and may require long-term medication, bypass surgery, or pacemakers.
What does cardiac rehabilitation involve?
Rehabilitation combines exercise, education, and psychological support.
What was the cost of CHD to the NHS and UK economy in 2009?
CHD cost the NHS £8.7 billion and the UK economy £19 billion.
