CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IN SOUTH EAST ASIA

Abstract

Cardiovascular Disease is number one killer in the world, followed bycommunicable diseases, cancer and others . About 30% of overall mortality isattributed to CAD. WHO figures are very alarming . It is reported that 1 billionpeople are overweight including 18 million children of age <5 years. Moreover60% of the world population is physically inactive. About 150 million people in theworld are diabetic and these figures will double in 2025. Statistics say that inspite of extensive anti tobacco campaigns all over the world, its consumption isstill increasing. In developed countries, the burden of CVD among thesepopulations is high and is expected to increase.

If lifestyle changes contribute to increase risk factors in these populations, the observed rise in CVD mortality will be larger thanthese estimates. So to address the issue of prevention of CAD related events, life style modification seems to be key factor. Therisk factor modification subject needs to be taught and included in school and higher education levels. Media role should beelaborated more.