The Hidden Risk of Heart Disease
Heart disease is a major health concern and can affect anyone. However, if you’re over 45, your risk significantly increases. Several factors contribute to this, including high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, smoking, and excess weight. In Australia, one in three adults experiences high blood pressure, a key contributor to cardiovascular issues1. Smoking remains prevalent and doubles the risk of heart disease. Additionally, sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits further elevate the risk.
A family history of heart problems can also increase your likelihood of developing heart disease. Understanding these risks allows for proactive measures to protect your health. According to the 2022 National Health Survey, approximately 1.3 million Australian adults (6.7% of the population) were living with cardiovascular conditions, including 600,000 adults (3%) affected by coronary heart disease1.
Men are more likely to suffer from cardiovascular diseases than women, with rates of 7.6% compared to 5.8%. The likelihood of developing heart-related conditions rises with age, impacting 1 in 4 adults aged 75 and older2.
In 2024, cardiovascular diseases accounted for nearly 12% of the overall disease burden in Australia, ranking as the fourth most significant health issue2. Among men, coronary heart disease remains the leading cause of health complications, while for women, it ranks seventh.
Simple Ways to Strengthen Your Heart
While some risk factors cannot be changed, making small lifestyle adjustments can greatly benefit heart health.
- Follow a Nutritious Diet: Incorporate fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals while cutting back on foods high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Opt for steaming or grilling rather than frying.
- Keep Active: Engaging in at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, helps regulate weight and reduce blood pressure.
- Stop Smoking: Tobacco use severely damages the cardiovascular system. Quitting smoking is one of the best steps to improve heart health.
- Control Alcohol Consumption: Drinking excessively can contribute to high blood pressure and weight gain. Limiting alcohol intake supports overall well-being.
- Prioritise Sleep: Poor sleep can contribute to stress and increase heart-related risks. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night.
- Visit Your GP for Regular Heart Health Checks: Routine check-ups can help detect early signs of heart disease and provide guidance on maintaining heart health.
The Importance of Heart Health Assessments After 45
A Heart Health Check conducted by your GP assesses your risk of heart disease and provides guidance on preventive steps. Many individuals are unaware of their risk, especially as conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol often present no symptoms.
Who Should Get a Heart Health Check3?
- Adults aged 45–79
- Individuals with diabetes from age 35
- First Nations people from age 30
If you do not already have a diagnosed heart condition, consider speaking with your GP about scheduling a Heart Health Check.
Cutting-Edge Cardiac Imaging for Early Detection
Doctors may recommend cardiac imaging to assess or monitor heart conditions. At Synergy Radiology, we provide advanced, low-dose imaging services to support accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans.
CT Coronary Angiogram (CTCA)
A high-resolution CT scan visualises the coronary arteries, helping detect blockages that might be causing symptoms like chest discomfort. You can read more here.
Myocardial Perfusion Imaging
This test measures blood flow to the heart muscle at rest and under stress, determining whether the heart receives adequate oxygen.
Why Choose Synergy Radiology for Cardiac Imaging?
At Synergy Radiology, we utilise state-of-the-art cardiac imaging technology, ensuring exceptional image quality and rapid results for heart diagnostics.
Our experienced team of radiologists is dedicated to providing you with high-clarity, low-dose, CT imaging services available. With convenient locations across the Hills, East and Inner West, we ensure exceptional care for our patients.
If you need quality cardiac imaging, please contact (02) 8881 3888.
References:
- AIHW, Heart, stroke and vascular disease: Australian facts, 2024, https://www.aihw.gov.au/getmedia/61010c29-cd66-46c7-9d7d-de590c0c7788/heart-stroke-and-vascular-disease-australian-facts.pdf?v=20250108111512&inline=true
- HeartFoundation Australia, 2024, Statistics and information on coronary heart disease in Australia, https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/evidence-and-statistics/coronary-heart-disease-key-stats
- Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, 2023, Heart Health, https://www.health.gov.au/news/heart-health