Understanding Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)
Cardiovascular disease is a broad term referring to diseases of the cardiovascular system. This includes diseases of the heart and the blood vessels including the blood flow to the brain. Cardiovascular disease may also be referred to as circulatory disease. Cardiovascular diseases include, but are not limited to:
Heart attack – occurs when blood supply to the heart is slowed or stopped because of a blockage.
Stroke – occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted or blocked.
Angina (chest pain) – occurs when blood vessels are narrowed and the heart receives less blood than it needs.
Heart Failure – occurs when when your heart does not pump as strongly as it should so your body does not get the right amount of blood and oxygen it needs to work properly.
These are just a few of the different types of cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Canada, and is often caused by high blood pressure and/or high cholesterol, among other factors.
For more information please visit the Heart and Stroke Foundation Website
