Why Scheduling A Heart Health Check Could Save Your Life
Are you aware that coronary heart disease is the leading single cause of death in Australia? In fact, CHD accounted for 17,500 deaths in Australia (2018) and was noted as the underlying cause of death. Heart health is such an important issue and should be regularly monitored once you reach a certain age. It’s suggested that you book your heart health check if you’re 45 and over, or 30 and over if you’re of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent. In this blog, we look at some of the risk factors involved with heart disease and how your doctor can guide you towards a healthier heart.
Link to: https://draytonstreetfamilypractice.com.au/services/
What Is Heart Disease?
Coronary heart disease — commonly known as heart disease — is usually the underlying cause of heart attacks. Heart attacks are the leading cause of death in Australia.
Heart disease occurs when plaque builds up in your arteries; reducing the amount of oxygen-rich blood that travels to your heart. This plaque, which is a combination of cholesterol, fat, calcium and other substances in the blood, can result in blood clots — the most common cause of heart attacks.
Heart Disease Risk Factors
Many of the risk factors associated with heart disease can be attributed to lifestyle choices. Therefore, once you’re aware of your risk factors you can adjust your behaviours and reduce your risk of heart disease.
Some of the risk factors for heart disease may include:
- Age
- Family History
- Smoking
- Poor Diet
- High Blood Pressure
- High Blood Cholesterol
- Obesity
- Stress
- Lack of exercise
- Poor dental health
What Is A Heart Health Check?
Heart health checks are a free service which is covered by Medicare. The heart health check will be performed by your GP who will determine your risk or a heart attack or stroke within the next 5 years. Heart health checks are also quick and painless — usually only lasting for around 20 minutes.
Bulk Billed Heart Health Checks
Drayton Street Family Practice is a bulk billing practice which specialises in heart health checks. Our caring and knowledgeable doctors can help you better understand your potential risk factors — and help you implement the necessary changes to improve your heart health. Schedule your heart health check by phoning our reception staff on 07 3857 2799.
[1] AIHW https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-health/coronary-heart-disease
[2] Heart Foundation https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/heart-health-education/heart-health-checks * The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organization, employer or company.