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Heart disease remains one of the main causes of death globally, and Malaysia is no exception. In Malaysia, heart disease is on the rise due to changes in lifestyle and an ageing population. This article looks at the major risks of heart disease in Malaysia and how preventive measures can help lower its impact.
Heart Disease is a Growing Concern in Malaysia
Many types of factors contribute to the rise of heart disease in Malaysia, which include unhealthy eating habits, sedentary lifestyles, and genetics.
The high consumption of saturated fats, excessive sugar, and sodium, together with little exercise, greatly increases the risk of getting heart disease. Additionally, the increasing rates of obesity, hypertension, and diabetes worsen the situation, increasing the strain on healthcare systems and raising the demand for comprehensive treatment. Therefore, the key to managing this issue and improving public health is through prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment.
The Key Risk Factors for Heart Disease in Malaysia
Some factors are the causes of the risk of getting heart disease in Malaysia. These risks can be separated into lifestyle factors, medical conditions, and genetic predispositions.
1. Unhealthy Diet
A diet of high fat and sugar is one of the main contributors to heart disease. The diet intake of many people in Malaysia involves an abundance of processed foods, fried items, and sugary beverages. These foods cause high cholesterol levels, which can block arteries and elevate the risk of heart attacks and strokes. A high salt intake also contributes to high blood pressure, a big risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
2. Lack of Physical Activity
Lack of physical activity is another big risk factor for heart disease. A great portion of the population in Malaysia lives an inactive lifestyle, usually because of work commitments and relying on cars for transportation. No exercise can cause obesity, poor cardiovascular fitness, and elevated levels of stress, all of which are contributory to heart disease development.
3. Diabetes and Hypertension
Hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes are tightly associated with heart disease. Blood vessels can be damaged by both conditions, which elevates the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. Malaysia has an increasing number of individuals with hypertension and type 2 diabetes, which greatly elevates heart disease incidences.
4. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Excessive alcohol consumption combined with smoking contributes to high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and weakened blood circulation, all of which increase the risk of heart disease.
5. Genetics and Family History
Heart disease in your family history can elevate your risk of getting cardiovascular disease. Many people in Malaysia are genetically predisposed to heart disease, which indicates that they may require additional precautions to prevent heart-related issues. Early detection and frequent health check-ups are important for those with a family history of heart disease.
Preventing Heart Disease in Malaysia
While heart disease in Malaysia is becoming a bigger problem, the good news is that this condition is mainly preventable with the correct lifestyle choices. Here are some key prevention methods below:
1. Adopting a Healthy Diet
Consuming a well-balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help decrease the risk of heart disease. Controlling the consumption of saturated fats, refined sugars, and salt is important in managing cholesterol and blood pressure. The Malaysian government and health organisations recommend following the Malaysian Dietary Guidelines to prevent heart disease.
2. Frequent Exercise
At least half an hour of physical activity a day can greatly decrease the risk of developing heart disease. Frequent exercise helps with weight control, enhances circulation, decreases blood pressure, and strengthens the heart. Start including activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming into your everyday routine.
3. Managing Chronic Conditions
Management of conditions such as hypertension and diabetes is important to prevent heart disease from progressing. The key lies in frequently monitoring blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. Consulting your doctor is encouraged and follow prescribed medications to ensure these conditions are under control.
4. Quitting Smoking and Limiting Alcohol
Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can significantly decrease the risk of developing heart disease. Smoking cessation programs and alcohol counselling can be helpful to individuals in Malaysia to help them make healthier choices in life.
FAQs About Heart Disease in Malaysia
1. Which lifestyle aspects lead to heart disease in Malaysia?
High-fat and high-sugar diets, no physical activity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption are main lifestyle factors to heart disease in Malaysia. These habits elevate the risk of health conditions such as obesity, high cholesterol, and hypertension.
2. Are heart disease incidences higher in urban or rural areas of Malaysia?
Heart disease rates are overall higher in urban places because of lifestyle factors like unhealthy diets, inactivity, and elevated stress levels. However, with limited access to healthcare and an increasing sight of unhealthy eating habits, rural places are also impacted.
3. What resources are accessible to Malaysians trying to give up smoking?
Malaysians can attend smoking cessation programs through government clinics and hospitals. These programmes offer counselling, support groups, and medications to help individuals stop smoking.
4. How frequently should I undergo heart health screenings?
It is recommended for people with risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease to undergo an annual screening. Depending on their age and lifestyle, some people can benefit from screenings every few years.
5. How do I schedule an appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals for a heart health check-up?
You can contact the Gleneagles Hospitals nearest to you to book a consultation. Their expert cardiologists and healthcare professionals will help you through the process and provide tailored care for your needs.
Schedule an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
Heart disease can cause severe health complications if not managed properly. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, or palpitations, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Early detection and intervention can greatly improve your chances of managing heart disease and preventing further complications.
If you are concerned about your heart health or need advice on heart disease prevention, contact us to schedule an appointment at your nearest Gleneagles Hospitals to schedule a heart screening or consultation. The expert team of cardiologists at Gleneagles Hospitals is available to assess your risk factors, offer personalised treatment plans, and provide guidance on lifestyle changes to protect your heart.
