Introduction
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in Saudi Arabia and worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, more than 17 million people die annually due to heart and vascular diseases. In Saudi Arabia, statistics indicate that a large proportion of adults are at risk of heart disease due to high rates of diabetes, obesity, smoking, and physical inactivity. The good news is that 80% of these diseases can be prevented by changing lifestyle habits.
What are cardiovascular diseases?
The term “cardiovascular diseases” includes several conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. The most common is atherosclerosis, where fat and cholesterol build up on the walls of the arteries, causing them to narrow. This can lead to heart attacks or strokes. Other conditions include heart failure (weakening of the heart muscle) and arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat).
Causes and risk factors in Saudi society
Major risk factors prevalent in Saudi Arabia:
- Diabetes: Saudi Arabia has one of the highest diabetes rates globally, increasing the risk of heart disease 2-4 times.
- High blood pressure: More than a quarter of adults in Saudi Arabia suffer from high blood pressure, with many unaware of their condition.
- High cholesterol: Due to unhealthy eating patterns and high saturated fat intake.
- Smoking: Nearly a quarter of Saudi men smoke, and smoking directly damages the arteries.
- Obesity and physical inactivity: Over 60% of Saudis are overweight or obese.
- Genetic factors: A family history of heart disease increases the risk.
Symptoms you should not ignore
Heart disease symptoms vary depending on the condition, but the most common include:
- Pain or pressure in the center of the chest
- Shortness of breath even with minimal effort
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
- Dizziness or fainting
- Swelling in the feet and ankles
- Unexplained fatigue
Important note: Heart attack symptoms may differ between men and women. Women may experience nausea and pain in the back or jaw instead of the traditional chest pain.
How to protect your heart: 7 practical steps
- Get tested: Have regular check-ups for blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol, especially after age 35. The Saudi Ministry of Health provides free screenings at health centers.
- Eat healthily: Reduce salt, sugar, and saturated fats. Increase vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Olive oil and fatty fish (salmon and tuna) are very beneficial for the heart.
- Move daily: Walking for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, reduces the risk of heart disease by 30%. Try walking in air-conditioned malls or nearby parks.
- Quit smoking: After one year of quitting, the risk of heart disease is halved. Saudi Arabia offers free smoking cessation clinics.
- Maintain a healthy weight: A healthy body mass index (BMI) is between 18.5 and 24.9. Obesity increases the burden on the heart.
- Sleep well: Lack of sleep is linked to high blood pressure and increased stress hormones that harm the heart.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress raises cortisol levels and increases inflammation in the body. Try deep breathing, exercise, or favorite hobbies.
Health initiatives in Saudi Arabia
As part of Vision 2030, the Kingdom has launched several initiatives to promote heart health, including the “Healthy Heart” awareness campaign, an early screening program for chronic diseases at primary care centers, a smoking cessation initiative, and the “Sehati” app for booking routine check-ups and monitoring health indicators.
Conclusion
Heart and vascular health is not a matter of chance but the result of daily choices. With God’s will, adopting a healthy lifestyle and regular check-ups can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease.
Football can protect you from the most dangerous diseases. Start today with a simple step: walk for 10 minutes, reduce salt in your food, and check your blood pressure. Your heart deserves it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are heart diseases hereditary?
A: Yes, having a family history increases the risk, but a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce this risk.
Q: When do I need to visit a cardiologist?
A: If you feel chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations, or if you are over 40 and have risk factors like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Q: Does a cholesterol test require fasting?
A: Some types require fasting for 9-12 hours. Consult your doctor or lab before the test.
Q: What is the difference between regular heart pain and heartburn pain?
A: Heart pain usually worsens with effort and improves with rest, while heartburn pain worsens after eating and disappears with antacids. However, do not take risks—any chest pain requires medical examination.
Q: Is coffee harmful to the heart?
A: No, coffee in moderation (2-3 cups daily) may be beneficial due to antioxidants. However, excessive intake temporarily increases heart rate.
Q: Is exercise safe for heart patients?
A: Yes, but after consulting a doctor. Walking, swimming, and cycling are suitable activities for most heart patients.
