Cardiovascular diseases cause 18.6 million deaths each year. These can be influenced by different risk factors, such as use of tobacco and alcohol abuse, diabetes, hypertension and obesity, environmental pollution. About 520 million people suffer from heart disease globally, IPN reports.

In a press release issued on the occasion of World Heart Day that is celebrated on September 29, the Ministry of Health says the persons suffering from cardiovascular diseases have been exposed to a bigger risk of developing serious forms of disease during the COVID-19 pandemic and had to isolate themselves owing to their increased vulnerability.

In Moldova, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death. As many as 22,872 persons died from heart disease in Moldova in 2020, by 1,360 more than in 2019.

The risk factors of cardiovascular diseases include the food rich in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, sugar and salt, insufficient physical activity, alcohol abuse and tobacco use.

Doctors recommend adopting a healthy eating lifestyle, maintaining blood pressures, cholesterol and the level of sugar in blood within normal limits.

Harnessing the power of digital health to improve awareness, prevention and management of CVD globally is the goal for Word Heart Day 2021, with telehealth playing a huge role in this regard.