Following the shock news of Shane Warne’s passing in March 2022, Australians are now facing the harsh reality that heart disease can affect anybody. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is responsible for causing 1 in 4 deaths in Australia meaning on average 118 Australians pass away from CVD every day. That's one Australian every 12 minutes dying from Cardiovascular Disease.
While heart disease is the most common cause of death in Australia and worldwide, it’s never too late to integrate healthy habits in your routine to help prevent it.
- Routinely request Blood Pressure, Cholesterol and Diabetes check-ups from your GP
- Be physically active for at least 2.5hrs each week over 5 days.
- Quit smoking and vaping
- Eat a healthy and balance diet that consists of lots of fruit and vegetables
If you are in a Can Too program and over 45 years old, Can Too recommends requesting a Heart Health Test and a Calcium Score Test from your GP. Being knowledgeable about your health status is key to preventing diseases such as CVD.
During a Heart Health Test, your GP will conduct tests to measure your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels. You will also have an important discussion about your history and lifestyle, as they are key factors in assessing your risk of heart disease. Depending on your results, your GP will discuss a plan to help reduce your risk.
Similarly, your GP may suggest getting a Calcium Score Test. This test is performed using a CT scan to monitor your heart rhythm and will show if there’s any build-up of calcium around your heart’s arteries. If there is too much calcium around your heart’s arteries, it prevents blood, oxygen and nutrients reaching your heart. It is possible for the calcium to break away and form a clot which can block arteries to cause a heart attack.
Staying on top of your health is vital to prolonging your life.
