Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). “Up to 80% of cardiovascular diseases could be prevented by adopting healthy lifestyle habits,” explains Dr Pedro Chinchurreta, Head of the Cardiology Department at HM Hospitales in Málaga.
For this reason, and to mark World Heart Day on 29 September, cardiologists from HM Hospitales in Málaga are offering advice and recommendations to keep the heart strong and healthy, with the aim of raising public awareness about the importance of adopting heart-healthy lifestyle habits.
A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, oily fish and healthy fats such as extra virgin olive oil is key. It is also advisable to limit salt, added sugars and saturated fats. “The Mediterranean diet is a great ally of cardiovascular health. What we eat has a direct impact on blood pressure, blood sugar levels, cholesterol and body weight,” says Dr Chinchurreta.
In addition, “doing at least 45 minutes of daily exercise on at least 5 days a week, combining aerobic activity (brisk walking, jogging, cycling, swimming or running) with strength training (weights, squats, machines…) improves circulation, lowers blood pressure and blood sugar and fat levels, and strengthens the heart. It’s not about practising sport at a high level, but about maintaining an active routine: walking, swimming or taking the stairs are actions that make a difference,” adds Dr Daniel Gaitán, service coordinator.
Tobacco, on the other hand, damages blood vessels, raises blood pressure and accelerates cardiovascular deterioration. Quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of a heart attack. Chronic stress can also raise blood pressure and increase inflammation.
It is essential to sleep 7–8 hours a day, which allows the body to recover and helps regulate key functions such as blood pressure and metabolism. “Regular check-ups are also important to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose, so that silent problems can be detected early,” notes Dr Gaitán.
Free tests
This Friday, tests will be carried out at HM Santa Elena International Hospital (Torremolinos), and on Monday 29 at HM Málaga Hospital. A marquee has been set up outside both hospitals from 10:00 to 12:00.
Those interested can undergo a free electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood pressure measurement, two simple, non-invasive tests that allow the early detection of heart rhythm problems or hypertension, both key factors in the prevention of coronary disease.
Dr Chinchurreta reminds that “many cardiovascular conditions develop silently, without obvious symptoms. That is why acting preventively and knowing the condition of the heart is essential to saving lives.”
The electrocardiogram, for example, can detect rhythm disturbances that may go unnoticed in the early stages, while an accurate blood pressure reading helps identify undiagnosed hypertension, one of the most common causes of heart attack and stroke.
This initiative is part of HM Hospitales’ commitment to prevention and health promotion among the general population, particularly in relation to cardiovascular diseases.
The specialists at HM Hospitales stress that small, sustained lifestyle changes over time can have a major impact on heart health. “Adopting healthy habits not only reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke, but also improves overall quality of life,” the cardiologists emphasise.