Heart disease deaths dropped more than 80% over the past seven decades.
That is one of the greatest public health achievements in modern history.
So why are experts still concerned?
Because survival has improved.
But risk factors are rising.
The Progress Story
Declines in cardiovascular death rates are attributed to:
• Improved emergency response
• Advances in surgical interventions
• Widespread use of medications
• Public health campaigns
• Smoking reduction efforts
• Research funding
Heart & Stroke has played a significant role in funding and advocating for many of these advancements.
This progress is real.
The Shift in Concern
At the same time, Heart & Stroke’s latest report highlights:
• Rising obesity rates
• Increasing diabetes prevalence
• Persistent hypertension
• Ongoing sedentary trends
More than 6 million Canadians are living with heart disease or stroke.
That number is higher than previously estimated.
Why?
Because we are keeping people alive longer.
Now prevention must become the next focus.
Survival vs. Prevention
The first era of cardiovascular medicine focused on rescue.
The next era must focus on prevention.
That means:
• Earlier screening
• Risk awareness
• Lifestyle intervention
• Policy advocacy
• Health equity
The goal is not just longer life.
It is healthier life.
And that begins before crisis.
Learn More & Connect
Check out our Infant & Child CPR & Choking First Aid Class HERE!
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