various types of heart disease
Heart disease remains one of the top causes of mortality in the United States. Consider the various types of heart disease covered in class this week. For your discussion, complete these items:
The etiology of the selected heart disease
Modifiable factors
Non-modifiable factors
Use at least one scholarly source to support your findings. Examples of scholarly sources include academic journals, textbooks, reference texts, and CINAHL nursing guides. Be sure to cite your sources in-text and on a References page using APA format.
Sample Solution
Coronary Heart Disease (CHD): A Leading Cause of Mortality
Heart disease encompasses a variety of conditions affecting the heart. One of the most prevalent and deadly forms is Coronary Heart Disease (CHD). CHD occurs when the coronary arteries, which supply blood and oxygen to the heart muscle, become narrowed or blocked due to a buildup of plaque (atherosclerosis). This plaque formation restricts blood flow, leading to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and potentially heart attack or heart failure.
Etiology of CHD:
Several factors contribute to the development of CHD. Here's a breakdown of modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors:
Modifiable Risk Factors:
- Diet: A diet high in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, sodium, and added sugars can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries. Consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is crucial for heart health (Lichtenstein et al., 2006).
- Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular exercise weakens the heart and increases the risk of obesity, another CHD risk factor. Aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week is recommended (American Heart Association, 2023).
- Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases inflammation, promoting plaque formation. Quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of CHD (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020).
- Obesity: Excess weight strains the heart and contributes to other risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes. Maintaining a healthy weight is vital for preventing CHD (Yusuf et al., 2008).
- Stress: Chronic stress can elevate blood pressure and increase inflammation, promoting CHD development. Stress management techniques like meditation or yoga can be beneficial (Rozanski et al., 2003).
Full Answer Section
- High Blood Pressure: Uncontrolled high blood pressure puts additional stress on the heart and arteries, accelerating plaque buildup. Following a healthy lifestyle and taking medications as prescribed are crucial for managing blood pressure (Chobanian et al., 2003).
- High Blood Cholesterol: High levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol contribute to plaque formation, while HDL ("good") cholesterol helps remove LDL. Dietary changes and cholesterol-lowering medications can help manage cholesterol levels (Grundy et al., 1994).
- Diabetes: People with diabetes have an increased risk of CHD due to impaired blood sugar control and its damaging effects on blood vessels. Managing diabetes through diet, exercise, and medication is essential (American Diabetes Association, 2023).
Non-Modifiable Risk Factors:
- Age: The risk of CHD increases with age as arteries naturally lose elasticity and become more susceptible to plaque buildup.
- Family History: Having a close relative with CHD increases your risk. While you can't change your genes, focusing on modifiable risk factors can significantly lower your overall risk.
- Sex: Men are generally at higher risk for CHD at a younger age than women. However, women's risk increases after menopause (Go et al., 2013).
Source:
- American Heart Association. (2023, January 31). How much physical activity do adults need? https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-infographic. Retrieved March 3, 2024, from heart.org
Additional Resources:
- American Diabetes Association. (2023, January 16). Understanding adult overweight and obesity. https://diabetes.org/obesity
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, January 22). Smoking and heart disease. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/health_effects/heart_disease/index.htm
- Chobanian, A. V., Bakris, G. L., Black, H. R., Cushman, W. C., Green, L. A., Izzo, J. L., ... & Wright, J. T. (2003). The Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC 7). Hypertension, 41(6), 1079-1112. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK9630/
- Grundy, S. M., Cleeman, J. I., Bairey Merz, C. N., Brett, E. M., Daniels, S. R., Donato, K. A., ... & Srinivasan, S. R. (1994). Summary of the Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel