UK: Number of deaths from heart disease increases for the first time in 50 years | Society



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In the UK, the number of people dying from heart and circulatory diseases before the age of 75 increases for the first time in 50 years, the British Heart Foundation announced.

There were 42,384 deaths under the age of 75 caused by illness in 2017, up from 41,042 in 2014, according to the numbers. In the five years to 2017, the number of people dying of heart and circulatory diseases before the age of 65 had increased by 4%, compared to a 19% drop in the previous five years.

Simon Gillespie, Executive Director of the British Heart Foundation (BHF), said: "We are deeply concerned about this reversal. Cardiac and circulatory diseases remain the leading cause of death in the UK. Millions of people are at risk because of conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

"We must work in partnership with governments, the NHS and the medical research community to increase investment in research and accelerate innovative approaches to diagnose and support the millions of people at risk of heart attack or stroke." cerebrovascular."

The BHF said that slowing the rate of improvement in mortality rates combined with a growing population was partly responsible. Between 2012 and 2017, premature death rates for heart and circulatory diseases in the UK decreased by only 9%, compared to 25% between 2007 and 2012.

But the organization also said that uncontrolled and undiagnosed risk factors, as well as severe inequalities, could lead to preventable deaths among young people.

There has been an 18% increase in the number of people diagnosed with diabetes in the last five years, with approximately 920,000 people diagnosed with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. It is estimated that nearly 5 million people suffer from undiagnosed hypertension.

The rates of premature deaths from heart and circulatory diseases in some parts of the country are more than three times higher than in others and there are 15 million obese British adults, which is more prevalent in the more remote areas. poor.

The BHF wants the UK to halve the number of premature deaths and post-stroke disabilities and increases the survival rate to a 90% heart attack by 2030.

Gillespie said: "It is only thanks to the continued commitment of our researchers, the generous support of the public and the determination of governments, that we can change the dial and imagine a 2030 when fewer people will live with fear. heart and diseases of the circulatory system. "

Dr. Matt Kearney, general practitioner and national clinical director for the prevention of cardiovascular disease, said, "BHF is right to point out the threat that cardiovascular health poses to avoidable risks such as obesity and diabetes-type 2 and the need to take broader action to address these issues. at the source, including attacking added salt and unwanted calories in our processed foods. "

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