This week, February 8-14, is being observed as cardiovascular week under the theme 'The Failing Heart'. While the bad news is that some of us have a 50 per cent chance of dying from heart or artery disease, the good news is that heart disease is, in most cases, completely preventable.

We neglect to protect ourselves from cardiovascular disease which is more life-threatening than HIV/AIDS. Reference is made to Eulalee Thompson, health editor, for her informative health section regarding the recent publication of the Jamaica Health and Lifestyle Survey 2008 (Wilks et al) which provides a wealth of information on Jamaica's chronic disease profile.

The survey found that hypertension (high blood pressure) and its bed-partner diabetes were the chronic diseases most frequently reported by Jamaicans. They are two of the major lifestyle diseases which, for the most part, are preventable and reversible with dietary changes and dietary habits.

Factor of the disease

Two main factors are largely responsible for socalled heart disease which in essence is a disease of the arteries: atherosclerosis (formation of deposits) and arteriosclerosis (the hardening of the arteries) are 'partners in crime' in cardiovascular disease, notwithstanding the ageing factor.

Although much is known about the causes of cardiovascular disease and how to prevent it, no doubt, more is yet to be disco-vered. Few of us, if any, are applying what is already known to prevent and reverse heart disease.

The best way to stay healthy in old age is to prevent disease before it starts. Briefly, cardiovascular health encapsulates taking care of the cardiovascular system which consists of blood vessels that carry oxygen, fuel (glucose), building materials (amino acids), vitamins, minerals and herbs to the millions of cells in your body.

Take care of your health and your health will take care of you.

I am, etc.,

VANCE LANNAMAN

naturaldoc@cwjamaica.com