Cardiovascular disease (CVD), is a general term for a group of conditions affecting hearts and blood vessels and is a leading cause of death worldwide.
It encompasses various conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease and peripheral arterial disease. These conditions can cause issues across a spectrum from chest pain, easy fatigability, and shortness of breath to heart attacks and strokes.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiac disease is a leading global cause of death, and it silently threatens millions of people, regardless of gender.
Heart disease has been a growing public health concern in Ghana. Records at the Birth and Death Registry show hypertension is a major contributing factor to the prevalence of heart disease in the country, while atrial fibrillation (AF) is said to be the most common type of irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). As this condition often goes unnoticed, it poses a significant risk of getting stroke and cognitive decline.
Endothelial dysfunction, a condition impacting the inner lining of blood vessels, plays a critical role in the development of CVD. Women, particularly during menopause, seem to be more susceptible to the condition, due to hormonal changes and other factors affecting their vascular system. Women need to be especially vigilant about their heart health throughout their lives, even if they perceive themselves at lower risk.
The gender gap in perception plays a crucial role in the development of CVD. While men and women share similar biological systems regarding heart health, as a result of which both genders face serious threats from cardiovascular conditions like high blood pressure, heart failure, and stroke, men tend to seek medical attention more readily, leading to early diagnosis and interventions, whereas women often neglect or dismiss warning signs due to societal pressures and perceived lower risk.
Health experts underscore the need to empower individuals of both genders to be vigilant about their heart health and advocate for themselves during medical consultations. And, with such risk factors as hypertension among the population, early detection and management of can help prevent or minimise the incidence of heart disease.
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet, incorporating more plant-based foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats, can help reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart failure. Limiting processed foods, sodium, and saturated fats is also crucial.
Policymakers play a vital role in ensuring equitable access to preventive services and affordable treatment. Through a comprehensive, evidence-based approach that addresses the needs of all individuals, regardless of gender, we can mitigate the silent threat of cardiac diseases and build a healthier future for all. The time to act is now, for the sake of ourselves and generations to come.
By Irene Amenuveve Mensah Email: irenemensah3000@gmail.com
Faculty of Journalism. Ghana School of Journalism
