Why we are focusing on cardiovascular disease

Heart and circulatory disease, also known as cardiovascular disease (CVD), is the biggest cause of death and disability in England with 1 death every 4 minutes, but often it can be prevented by leading a healthy lifestyle.

CVD has a huge impact on people’s lives, but early detection and treatment can help patients live longer healthier lives. West Yorkshire Healthy Hearts is a three-year initiative that aims to contribute to the reduction in the number of people affected by cardiovascular disease including strokes and heart attacks. The focus is on three specific risk factors including:

• high blood pressure (also known as hypertension)
• high cholesterol
• atrial fibrillation