Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death in both Croatia and worldwide. According to data from the Croatian Institute of Public Health (HZJZ), in 2023, they claimed 19,937 lives in our country, accounting for almost 39 percent of all deaths. These include conditions such as heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and ischemic heart disease, which together take more than 20.5 million lives globally each year.
“Many of these diseases can be prevented,” experts emphasize, highlighting the importance of a healthy diet, regular physical activity, quitting smoking, managing stress, and undergoing preventive check-ups.
Heart under pressure – the risks of obesity and hypertension
Assoc. Prof. Aleksandar Kibel, PhD, head of Internal Medicine and Cardiology at IMC Priora, points out that obesity and high blood pressure significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. “Obesity is not just an esthetic problem. It has serious and direct consequences on the function of the heart and blood vessels, from hypertension and atherosclerosis to heart attack and stroke,” he warns.
Hypertension often develops without symptoms and is only discovered once damage to the heart, brain, kidneys, or eyes has already occurred. This is why regular monitoring of blood pressure and strict adherence to prescribed therapy are essential.
Heart and prevention in focus at IMC Priora
At IMC Priora, a strong emphasis is placed on both prevention and timely treatment. Professor Kibel particularly highlights new medications for treating obesity, which have already been included in international cardiology guidelines. Reducing body weight, even by just 5 to 10 percent, significantly lowers the risk of heart disease.
Experts also warn about the impact of smoking, chronic stress, and poor sleep on heart health. Daily lifestyle habits largely determine the condition of our cardiovascular system.
Read the full article at the link: Glas Slavonije.
