Prevention of cardio-vascular diseases

According to data of Wold health organisation, in European countries there is 40% of deaths caused by cardio-vascular diseases, hart and blood vessels diseases. More than half of the population that get hart attack does not live through first month, and 60% of all deaths happens before reaching a hospital.
Coronary diseas is diseas of constriction or blockage of blood vessels, arteries supplying heart muscle with blood.
Stenosis are in more than 90% of cases the consequences of arterosclerosis process in these arteries. The disease usually occurs in three basic forms: angina pectoris, myocardial infarction or sudden death.

Risk factors for development of cardiovascular diseases

Positive Family history
High blood pressure
Diabetes
Over weight
increased fat content
Lack of physical activity
Smoking
Acute or chronic stress
already suffered from heart attack or stroke
Men older than 45
Woman over 55 years of age or from 40 years of age if in menopause without estrogen therapy

Disease of high blood pressure are usually not curabe, but can be successfully treated.

Principles that we must accept for a successful struggle with these risks

Regular controls with your doctor
Regularly measuring blood pressure
Daily intake of prescribed drugs
Do not smoke
Reduce coffee and alcohol consumption, especially strong alcohol
Eat low fat food and use only vegetable fat (oil and margarine)
Eat low fat meat and meat products
Eat fish three times a week
Fewer eggs
Eat more products from whole grain cereal, black bread
Eat plenty and often of fresh fruit and vegetables, above all ontaining fiber and vegetables
Avoid foods with sugar
Prepare boiled food with a less salt
Drink sufficient amount of liquid, the best water (1-2 l)
Maintain the average body weight
Fast walk daily for 40 to 50 minutes or exercise at home (it is useful to hike and swim
Avoid stressful situation

Complieing with these measures will do much for your health, you will be satisfied and successful in your work and life. And do not forget that health is your biggest treasure !

Dr. Ivan Brozičević, Chief Physician, M.Sc., M.D.
Internist - Cardiologist