Cardiovascular disease has consistently been ranked as the top three causes of hospitalisation and death in Singapore. However, the threat of this disease can be averted if people take preventive measures early. Asst. Prof. Yeo Tee Joo shares more about the methods and the programme.
Increasing Risks of Heart Disease
Studies showed that one in five Singaporeans have one or more risk factors for cardiovascular disease such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking and physical inactivity. These conditions contribute to ischemic heart disease, which eventually leads to heart failure. For patients with established cardiovascular disease, the healthcare costs pose a significant burden not only for them, but also for their families and the society and healthcare system at large.
Early Intervention
There is an opportunity to intervene at an early stage to halt the progression of these cardiovascular risk factors. Some primary prevention methods include smoking cessation, control of blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels as well as increase physical activity and promote healthy eating.
In a primary prevention programme, an individual's cardiovascular risk factors are identified. Depending on the symptoms present, further investigations may be arranged to either detect the disease at an early stage or recommend suitable physical activity.
If you are at high risk of cardiovascular disease, why not join a primary prevention programme to improve your heart health? Visit here for more information.
By: Asst. Prof. Yeo Tee Joo
