Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the greatest cause of death in the western
world which leads to an annual death rate of over 6 million people, including
20,000 deaths in Australia.
As individuals we all want to live a healthy and happy life; however, this cannot
be achieved if we make poor lifestyle choices. Such choices usually result
in a deterioration in the very quality of life we all seek. There is also the high
likelihood that in the future we could become a burden on our family, friends
and the healthcare system, and who in their right mind wants any of that?
The major concern with coronary heart disease is that in most cases people
are not aware of an impending problem until they are struck with a heart attack
or worse, a sudden cardiac arrest. The good news is you can reduce your risk
factors for heart disease and even stroke.
By being more aware of the consequences of poor lifestyle choices, as well as
understanding how you can reduce your risks of CHD, you can begin a renewed
process to increase your long-term quality of life, as well as reduce the chance
of premature death.
This book helps you start this journey to better health by providing you with
information on:
- The causes of atherosclerosis that leads to CHD and stroke
- The basic structure and function of the heart
- The complications of CHD
- The risk factors influencing CHD
- The basic management of:
• angina
• heart attack
• cardiac arrest
• stroke
- How your individual risk factors can be reduced.
As the cliché goes: prevention is always better than cure. So, along with the
assistance and advice of your local doctor, ultimately, it’s up to you to apply the
lifestyle changes needed.
JOHN HAINES
A.D.H.Sc (Ambulance),
MICA Paramedic Cert.
