According to statistics released by the Department of Health, heart disease has consistently ranked among the top 5 leading causes of death in Hong Kong over the past decade, with coronary heart disease being the most prevalent. As the vital organ responsible for supplying blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the entire body, the heart tirelessly operates 24/7. Any discomfort or issues with the heart can have varying consequences, ranging from minor to severe.

Heart Disease and Cardiovascular Diseases

When discussing heart disease, it is often intertwined with the topic of cardiovascular diseases, as the heart and blood vessels have an inseparable relationship. However, they have slight differences in medical definitions. Heart disease refers to any condition that affects the heart muscles, valves, and rhythms, including arrhythmias, coronary heart disease, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, congenital heart disease, and heart valve diseases. On the other hand, cardiovascular diseases encompass a broader range of conditions related to the heart and the vascular system, such as coronary artery disease, angina, stroke, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and high blood pressure.

Is 45 the Turning Point for Heart Health?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, over 75% of cases of heart attacks and strokes are attributed to risk factors associated with an increased "heart age." Apart from the natural aging process, factors such as hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, lack of exercise, obesity, smoking, and a family history of heart disease or sudden cardiac death can all contribute to the likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases.

A survey has revealed that individuals aged 45 and above have the highest risk of developing heart and cardiovascular diseases among all the risk factors associated with cardiovascular conditions. Among this group, the probability of men developing cardiovascular diseases (60%) is higher compared to women (55%). This is because entering middle age at 45 marks a critical phase where many chronic diseases that contribute to the risk factors of cardiovascular diseases begin to manifest or worsen. Combined with unhealthy lifestyles and dietary habits accumulated over time, the age of 45 is often considered a crucial turning point for heart health, requiring increased attention and monitoring.

Comprehensive MRI Health Check Program
Regular heart and vascular check-ups and assessments help monitor early risk factors for cardiovascular diseases! Re:HEALTH's Comprehensive MRI Health Check Program offers a comprehensive range of 17 body examination items, including MRI of the brain, brain vessels, and neck vessels, blood tests, tumor marker tests, cardiovascular risk assessment, and blood sugar risk screening. This program enables a thorough examination of any abnormalities in the blood vessels, such as vascular malformations, clots, thrombi, and coagulation issues. It also provides insights into blood lipid levels, organ health, and diabetes risk. Particularly suitable for individuals with “3 highs”, sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, or a family history of heart or cardiovascular diseases, this program focuses on assessing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

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Disclaimer: This article is prepared by an independent third party and is not sponsored. The content provided is solely for informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It does not represent any specific viewpoint. In the event of any discomfort or health issues, it is advised to seek medical attention promptly.