Heart Diseases

Heart diseases encompass a range of conditions that affect the heart’s structure and function. Common types include coronary artery disease (CAD), heart attack, heart failure, arrhythmias, and valvular heart disease. Cardio vascular diseases are often linked to lifestyle factors, genetic predisposition, and underlying medical conditions.

Risk Factors:

• Unhealthy diet (High in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol)
• Lack of physical activity
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Age (Risk increases with age)
• Family history of heart disease
• Medical conditions (Diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, chronic kidney disease)
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Stress and poor mental health

Symptoms:

• Chest pain or discomfort (angina)
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet (in heart failure)
• Pain in the neck, jaw, or back

• Nausea or light headedness (especially during a heart attack)
• Dizziness or fainting
• Pain or discomfort in the arms, back, or stomach

Prevention and Early Detection:

• Consume a heart-healthy diet, focusing on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats (e.g., omega-3 fatty acids)
• Exercise regularly (at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week)
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on the heart
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or therapy
• Regular cardiovascular screenings (blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, etc. )
• Monitor vital signs regularly to catch early signs of heart disease

Diagnosis and Staging:

Cardiac Markers: Blood tests used to assess cardiovascular risk. The tests typically include the following measurements:

• Apolipoprotein B (Apo B): Elevated levels are associated with a higher risk of heart disease.
• Apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1): Higher levels are protective against cardiovascular disease.
• Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotein A1 Ratio (Apo B/Apo A1 Ratio): A higher ratio indicates an increased risk of heart disease.
•  Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)]: Higher levels are associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
• High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP): Elevated levels indicate increased inflammation and a higher risk of cardiovascular events. 

Why Regular Screening Matters?

Regular screening for heart disease markers such as Apo B, Apo A1, Lp(a), and hs-CRP is essential for identifying individuals at risk of cardiovascular disease. Early detection allows for preventive measures and tailored treatment, helping reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other severe heart-related conditions.