Heart and habits – what increases the risk the most?
Heart health is not influenced solely by genetics; it largely depends on everyday habits – what we eat, how much we move and sleep, and how we cope with stress. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in Croatia and worldwide. According to data from the Croatian Institute of Public Health (HZJZ), in 2023, the country claimed 20,000 lives, and experts point out that as many as 85 percent of these deaths can be prevented. Ahead of World Heart Day, cardiologist Assoc. Prof. Aleksandar Kibel, PhD, from IMC Priora, warns about the five most common habits Croatians need to change.
Five habits that seriously endanger the heart
Smoking – Every cigarette damages blood vessels, raises blood pressure, and accelerates plaque buildup in the arteries, doubling the risk of a heart attack.
Unhealthy diet – Food rich in saturated fats, salt, and sugar, and poor in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, significantly increases the risk of heart and vascular disease. It raises cholesterol and blood pressure, leading to coronary disease, heart attack, and hypertension.
Sedentary lifestyle – Just 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and reduces the risk of atherosclerosis. Lack of movement is the “disease” of modern times.
Ignoring high blood pressure and cholesterol – Hypertension is a silent disease that often goes unnoticed until it has already caused damage to the heart, brain, kidneys, or eyes. Regular blood pressure checks can save lives.
Obesity – Excess weight places a significant strain on the heart and blood vessels. Losing even 10 percent of body weight significantly reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke. Croatia, alongside Malta, ranks among the top countries in Europe for obesity.
“Obesity is not just an esthetic problem – it has direct consequences on heart function,” emphasizes Prof. Kibel, whose work at IMC Priora focuses on the prevention and treatment of obesity.
Read the full article at the link: Večernji list
