A widespread, underestimated disease
Cardiovascular diseases are at the top of the cause-of-death statistics. In Germany alone, twelve million people between the ages of 35 and 65 have a high risk of heart attack (cardiac infarction) or stroke. And many of them are unaware of this risk. Worldwide, more than 17 million people die of the consequences of heart attack or stroke every year. Smoking, frequent alcohol consumption, stress, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and insufficient exercise almost invite a heart attack or stroke.
The risk increases with age. When cardiovascular diseases are a hereditary trait, young people are also at risk. Contrary to many prejudices, such diseases are not a purely male domain. They kill 8.5 million women worldwide every year. And three million die of stroke – 25 percent more than among men.
Early prevention can save lives
Prevention is the best medicine. People who are aware of their personal risk and learn how to deal with it can reduce the probability of a heart attack or stroke. Causes that can trigger a heart attack or a stroke include:
- smoking
- lack of exercise
- excessive alcohol consumption
- obesity
- high blood pressure
- diabetes mellitus
- lipid metabolic disorder (high cholesterol)
Studies have shown that a balanced diet lowers the cholesterol level, which in turn reduces the risk of a heart attack by up to 24 percent. Exercise, too, improves blood-fat levels and simultaneously gives protection against high blood pressure. Endurance sports are the most suitable forms of exercise. They have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system and the metabolism.
However, although a healthy diet and sufficient exercise are important, they are sometimes not enough. Risk patients who have already suffered one cardiac infarction can prevent a further vascular occlusion by the regular intake of Aspirin Cardio®, known as Aspirin® Protect in Germany.
Educational initiatives all over the world
Bayer Schering Pharma's pharmaceutical research and development work focuses on the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. However, the company also sees its social responsibility in prevention. Together with the World Heart Federation (WHF), Bayer has been supporting worldwide educational initiatives aimed at preventing cardiovascular diseases since 2005.
The shared commitment of the collaboration with the WHF is to make a longer and better life possible for the population of world by the prevention and containment of heart attack and stroke. Bayer Schering Pharma's aim in the partnership is to help the WHF in its mission of informing the public and members of the medical professions about the risks of this widespread disease and to create uniform international standards on the prophylaxis of cardiovascular diseases.
Everyone is taking part!
All over the world, Bayer Schering Pharma staff members are organizing educational campaigns and motivating the public to take the prevention of cardiovascular diseases seriously.
Germany:
Focusing on the message "knowledge protects," an initiative called HerzProtect is providing extensive information material – on the Internet and in the form of brochures – with helpful tips on a healthy lifestyle and the effective prevention of cardiovascular complaints.
Spain:
Spain's King Juan Carlos is supporting the Bayer HealthCare campaign Cardio Alert. Citizens can have their personal cardiovascular risk factors assessed and obtain information on suitable precautionary measures.
Taiwan:
Together with the Taiwanese Society of Cardiology, Bayer HealthCare Taiwan is organizing an 85-kilometer open cross-country race and offering the participants a personal health check.
Advice for patients
Every body reacts differently to medicines. Therefore it is impossible to tell which medicine works best for you. Please consult your physician or pharmacist.
