KARACHI: Heart diseases termed a major cause of deaths
KARACHI, May 17: The coronary heart diseases according to a health survey was the major cause of over 33 per cent deaths in Pakistan.
Delineating startling facts and figures at an informative and interesting interactive session on "how to protect your heart", Dr Khawer Kazmi of Aga Khan Hospital termed genetic susceptibility, smoking, stressful life and poor socio-economic conditions as the major factors contributing towards the growing coronary heart diseases in the country.
The session was organized by the Aga Khan University Hospital in collaboration with DHA Medical Centre here on Monday. Among others, DHA Administrator Brig Maqsood Hussain attended the session.
Dr Kazmi at length explained the vital function of heart which pumped blood in the human body. He said that the gradual deposit of lipids (fats) in coronary artery which provided oxygenated blood to the heart caused its blockage causing angina pain and heart attacks. Symptoms for the heart diseases were chest discomfort, sweating, shortness of breath and weakness, he added.
He stressed the need of prevention which, he said, was better than cure for protecting the heart from any disease. In this regard, he listed adoption of healthy life style, regular and enhanced physical activity, healthy eating habits, control of obesity and less consumption of fats and oils in our diet as important safe guards.
The cardiologist particularly stressed the need of making life enjoyable and keeping hypertension under control as important measures for maintaining a healthy and vibrant heart.
Dr Kazmi pointed out that every third person in Pakistan was suffering from hypertension, which was a silent killer and unfortunately 75 per cent of the people were unaware of the same. He stressed the need for proper medication, regular exercise and reduced salt/fats intake in diet for keeping blood pressure under control.
Speaking at the session, Brig Maqsood Hussain said that the DHA as a part of its strategic policy was endeavouring to provide healthy, clean and qualitative living environment to its residents. -APP
