In recent times, we have lived through an epidemic and continue to fight off diseases like the common flu. However, there is one silent epidemic that has been steadily gaining ground in the United States: heart disease. Previously believed to only be dangerous to the elderly, heart disease is now affecting people of all demographics. Let’s take a closer look at how and why it’s plaguing this country. 

Types of Heart Disease

Most people assume heart disease is characterized by the buildup of plaque in arteries, also known as coronary artery disease. While this may be the most prevalent form of heart disease, there are many other types such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and valvular heart disease. It is important to realize the vast array of heart diseases in order to understand the different impacts they have. Knowing the risk factors of many heart diseases, mainly high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and diabetes, can be handy for early intervention and prevention

Age and Gender Disparities

While such diseases are more dangerous to the elderly, this has been rising at an alarming rate for the younger population. Cardiovascular disease now affects nearly 1% – around 40,000 – births per year. And when looking at teenagers, this number jumps to 4%. Something even worse is the climbing rate of obesity. Around the United States, obesity claims almost 40% of young adults and more than 60% of adults. Not only that, but heart disease symptoms can vary from men to women. Many women dismiss the possibility of heart disease when experiencing common symptoms such as indigestion or shortness of breath, often categorizing it as anxiety or just “normal” pain. Still, heart disease claims the lives of more than 300,000 men and women every year.  

The Culprit: Dietary Habits

One of the crucial aspects of heart disease is where it begins: the American diet. Over the past few decades, the nation has progressed with their love of fast food with more than 200,000 fast food restaurants around the country. While more than 30 million Americans live in a food desert, more than 40% of Americans are obese due to overnutrition. Fast foods come with low prices and easy access. However, they also attract unhealthy levels of fat and refined sugar, leading to an increase of cholesterol and inflammation of the body. 

American’s Sedentary Lifestyle 

America prides itself on being the land of opportunity. And while opportunity can lead to convenience, it comes at a great cost. As the country transitions into an industrial sector, this causes people to have increasingly sedentary lifestyles with no need for movement. Regular physical activity is a must to reduce any risk of cardiovascular disease such as high blood pressure and obesity. Yet when the majority of Americans work from their homes and can get food at the touch of a button, physical exercise becomes lost. 

So the dietary habits and lifestyle of Americans is a tremendous challenge when it comes to cardiovascular disease. But how can it be stopped?

Many Americans realize they are victims of cardiovascular disease when it is too late. However, these problems are much easier to evade if chosen to do so earlier. It starts at the basics: maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in regular exercise. Simply doing 15-minutes of exercise a day can lower your chances of getting heart disease by a considerable amount. By fostering awareness, advocating for change, and prioritizing a healthy lifestyle, we can collectively navigate towards a healthier nation.