Heart Disease in Texas: Everything You Need To Know
Heart disease is one of the most prevalent illnesses — particularly in the state of Texas. The term “heart disease” sums up a variety of health complications that affect the heart, such as congenital heart disease, coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, cardiomyopathy, and arrhythmia. According to the World Health Organization, heart disease is the number one leading cause of death in both the United States and the world. Annually, heart disease leads to approximately 800,000 deaths in the U.S.
In 2019, 20 million people worldwide lost their lives to heart disease. Even in 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recorded 18.5 million deaths from heart disease worldwide.
But what is heart disease, why is it so prevalent, and what can Texans do to prevent or manage heart disease?
First, Understanding Heart Disease
Heart disease is any complication that affects any part of the heart, including heart valves, arteries, veins, or any of the heart's four chambers. Unfortunately, any individual of any age can develop heart disease at any time. The biggest risk factors—like a sedentary lifestyle and pre-existing medical conditions—can lead to heart disease at a young age. But for now, let’s talk about the two most common heart diseases: Coronary Artery Disease, and Atherosclerosis.
Coronary Artery Disease
Also known as ischemic heart disease, this is the most common heart complication in the United States. The primary cause of CAD is the build-up of cholesterol deposits in the arteries that supply blood, nutrients, and oxygen to the heart and other body parts. So the most at-risk are those with high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels; alcoholism, smoking, and a lack of exercise can also make you susceptible to CAD.
It is possible to inherit the genes that are associated with coronary heart disease. Because of this, cardiologists recommend medical screening for individuals with a family history of the condition.
Coronary heart disease is a significant health concern, but it’s not a death sentence. Despite having no cure, the condition is manageable. Someone with coronary heart disease can live a long and full life by making the right lifestyle choices and taking medication when necessary.
Atherosclerosis
This is a heart condition that leads to the thickening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis results from plaque build-up inside the arteries, thus interfering with blood flow to the heart. Plaque is typically made up of cholesterol, fat, and other components found in the blood.
Common causes include:
Diabetes
Obesity
Smoking
High levels of lipids in the blood
High cholesterol levels
High blood pressure
Heart Disease in Texas By the Numbers
Heart disease and obesity are among the top health concerns not just in Harris County but also across Texas.
Here are some numbers:
Our state is the third most affected in America regarding heart complications.
Heart disease in Texas accounts for two in every five deaths.
Recent reports reveal that coronary artery disease is still the most common heart disease in Texas.
Currently, Dallas has the highest rate of heart disease in Texas.
At present, Harris County records the lowest rate of heart disease in the state.
In the year 2019, heart disease claimed the lives of approximately 45,000 people in Texas alone.
Texan men are more affected than women due to lifestyle choices.
In 2020, nearly 53,000 Texans died from heart disease-related deaths.
Following reports from the Texas Department of State Health, COVID-19 partly contributed to the deaths of individuals with underlying heart conditions.
Texas spends roughly $20 billion on heart disease-related studies and initiatives annually.
How to Manage Heart Disease
Of course, managing an existing heart condition depends on the type of heart disease that you have. In short, the best way to manage heart disease is simply by improving your lifestyle choices.
Lifestyle changes you can make might include:
Limiting alcohol intake
Quitting smoking
Reducing processed, or fatty foods
Controlling blood pressure
Treating diabetes (if applicable)
Exercising regularly
Severe cases of cardiovascular diseases require medication or surgery. Keep in mind that you can prevent progressive heart complications by looking out for early warning signs.
Some early warning signs of heart disease that you should pay attention to may include:
Chest pains
Shortness of breath
Heartburn
Faintness
Nausea
Premature heartbeat
Fatigue
Heart disease is the leading cause of death and disability both in the United States and worldwide. While science and technology continue to improve our treatment methods, the rate of heart disease-related deaths continues to increase; it’s not going anywhere anytime soon, but we want to say the same for you, too. If you’re worried about cardiovascular diseases, please give us a call to set up an appointment: (281) 469-4690.