Cardiovascular Disease In New York State
BINGHAMTON, NY - Cardiovascular Disease is the leading cause of death in New York State, but New Yorkers can reduce their risk of death and disability by following their health care providers' advice about physical activity and healthful nutrition, according to the Broome County Health Department.
Each year, more than 70,000 people in New York State die from cardiovascular disease. This accounts for 45 percent of all deaths statewide. Nationally, cardiovascular disease has been the leading cause of death every year, but one, since 1900.
"As New York State's population ages, the number of people with cardiovascular disease will continue to grow. However, improvements in health care and intervention by health care providers means that people with cardiovascular disease are more likely to survive and live active lives than in the past. Patients play an important role in their own health care and, fortunately, more people with cardiovascular disease are taking steps to protect themselves," said Claudia Edwards, Public Health Director, of the Broome County Health Department.
According to a 1999 survey of New Yorkers, half of all adults reported having received advice from a health care provider about physical activity, and 37 percent received advice on nutrition. Of those who were advised to consume less fat and cholesterol, 81 percent said they followed the advice. Seventy-five percent of New York adults said they followed the advice to engage in physical activity.
New Yorkers were questioned as part of a Behavioral Risk Factor Survey (BRFSS) developed by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and conducted statewide by the State Health Department.
"In recent years, there is more evidence that physical activity and healthful nutrition help reduce the risk and severity of life-threatening disease, including cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes. The U.S. Surgeon General recommends at least 30 minutes of physical activity, such as a brisk walk, on most days of the week," Ms. Edwards said.
During September 22-28, 2002 the National Cancer Institute will celebrate 5-A-Day Week to remind everyone of the benefits of eating at least five servings of vegetables and fruit every day. Choosing vegetables and fruit, together with one percent or fat-free milk and other dairy products, helps control weight and reduces the risk of disease, while providing an excellent source of vitamins, carbohydrates and dietary fiber.
The carbon monoxide and other poisons in tobacco cause smokers to be two to six times more likely to have heart attacks than non-smokers. When smokers quit, they immediately begin to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease.
About seven percent of New York adults who responded to the survey said they had been told by a doctor that they have had a heart attack, angina or stroke. Among those 65 years old and older, the figure was 20 percent. Men reported cardiovascular disease only slightly more often than women.
"It's important for people to know that, even after a heart attack or stroke, physical activity and healthful nutrition can lower the risk of it happening again," Ms. Edwards said.To learn more about how physical activity and healthful nutrition can reduce the risk and severity of heart disease, write:
Healthy Heart
Box 2000
Albany, NY 12220
CONTACT:
Diane O'Hora, Supervising Public Health Educator,
Broome County Health Department, 607.778.3921
email: dohora@co.broome.ny.us
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