Improving cardiovascular health for a better quality of life

Cardiovascular disease represents a major public health challenge, and it is imperative that we take a proactive approach to preserving the health of our hearts. There are many such conditions, making cardiovascular health awareness and prevention an important issue in France.

Cardiovascular disease figures

Cardiovascular disease is still the world’s leading cause of death, representing a range of pathologies primarily affecting the heart, including myocardial infarction, heart failure and stroke.

In France, 140,000 deaths a year are linked to cardiovascular disease.

And according to the WHO, cardiovascular disease accounts for 17.7 million deaths worldwide, or 31% of global mortality.

We need to prevent these diseases and preserve our cardiovascular health.

February is Cardiovascular Health Awareness Month, and Procope Medicals is joining this cause, encouraging people to maintain a healthy heart through a number of preventive actions.

Who's concerned ?

Unfortunately, all age groups are affected, not just the over-40s.

First and foremost, the elderly are the main target of cardiovascular disease. “Around 15% of people aged 80 and over die of heart failure every year”. (Cap Retraite) Indeed, there are many risk factors: lifestyle, medication, obesity, diabetes, but also coronary heart disease.

Secondly, while the number of cardiovascular deaths is higher in women (54%) than in men, before the age of 65, cardiovascular mortality in men is 3 to 4 times higher than in women.

What’s more, the disease can set in at an early age. In fact, according to the WHO, excessive use of screens is considered a risk factor, and there is a decline in physical activity among young people. According to Santé Publique France, the increase in sedentary lifestyles among 11-14 year-olds has intensified since 2020. So it’s important to start adopting healthy habits as early as possible.

A healthier lifestyle

Preventing cardiovascular disease is a national and global issue. And health authorities regularly launch prevention campaigns highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and reducing risks, notably with the Assurance Maladie, which has created a prevention campaign for the early diagnosis of heart failure.

In conclusion, 4 simple ways to improve cardiovascular health at any age :

Physical activity – Exercise is essential for every human being, and for maintaining a healthy heart. INSERM recommends moderate to vigorous exercise of around 150 minutes a week to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by 17 to 25%.
Sleep – It’s important to get a good quality of sleep every day to contribute to our physical and mental well-being. According to INSERM, sleep-related problems are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Diet plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health. It is therefore advisable to eat a balanced diet, reducing salt and sugar intake.
Reduce tobacco and alcohol consumption – Regular consumption increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. According to Santé Publique France, smoking remains the leading cause of death from cardiovascular disease.