Heart Disease and Stroke

Heart disease and stroke, the first and third leading causes of death for men and women, are among the most widespread and costly health problems facing our nation today, yet they also are among the most preventable. Cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and stroke, account for more than one-third (33.6%) of all U.S. deaths.

In 2007, of all Americans who died of cardiovascular diseases, 150,000 were younger than age 65. Heart disease and stroke also are among the leading causes of disability in the United States, with nearly 4 million people reporting disability from these causes.

Prevention

Leading a healthy lifestyle—not using tobacco, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and making healthy food choices—greatly reduces a person’s risk of developing heart disease or stroke. Preventing and controlling high blood pressure and high cholesterol also play a significant role in cardiov ascular health. For example, a 12–13 point reduction in average systolic blood pressure over 4 years can reduce heart disease risk by 21%, stroke risk by 37%, and risk of total cardiovascular death by 25%. Public health strategies and policies that promote healthy living, encourage healthy environments, and promote control of blood pressure and cholesterol levels are vital to improving the public’s health and saving lives. Ensuring that all Americans have access to early, affordable, and appropriate treatment also is essential to reducing disability and costs.