Cardiovascular diseases constitute the leading cause of death in most countries. They are responsible for about 50 per cent of tofal mortality.

Classification

Cardiovascular diseases are classified as:

Congenital : Ventricular sepal defect (VSD)

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Acquired : Rheumatic heart disease Hypertension Coronary heart disease Stroke.

Cause

Congenital heart diseases are caused by rubella and viral infec­tions. Also they are caused by ingestion of harmful drugs by preg­nant mothers.

Acquired heart diseases are caused by a variety of factors. They are 1. hypertension 2. obesity diabetes 4. smoking 5. lack of exercise 6. heredity

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Prevention and control

1. Reduction of fat intake

2 Maintenance of normal body weight

3. Avoiding tobacco smoking

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4. increasing physical activity

5. Identifying and treating diabetes and hypertension.

6. Specific treatment for congenital defects or surgery

7. Advanced treatment and follow up in patients with infarction, angina etc.

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8. Health education about heart diseases and methods of prevention.