×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Healthy lifestyle for a healthy heart

2007JUUNE3MZU Celeration for 80 years birthday party Sindy Hlatshwayo as her grand children braai for guests. PHOTO MBUZENI ZULU
2007JUUNE3MZU Celeration for 80 years birthday party Sindy Hlatshwayo as her grand children braai for guests. PHOTO MBUZENI ZULU

THE "silent killer" is not a serial killer lurking in the dark, but rather heart disease.

THE "silent killer" is not a serial killer lurking in the dark, but rather heart disease.

It's World Heart Day tomorrow and the view that heart disease and diabetes only affect middle-aged people is a myth.

Strokes and heart and kidney diseases are the result of high blood pressure and can be fatal.

Timeous diagnosis and intervention are effective preventative methods.

But the sad reality is that most people suffering from these conditions have no or few symptoms so they are often unaware they have the illnesses.

That is why regular medical checkups are vital.

Smokers are at risk of developing atherosclerotic blockages in the blood vessels of the heart.

Wally Katzke is ambassador for the The Healthy Heart Family Drive this year. Last year Katzke had his open-heart surgery shown on national television. The broadcast, during which the public got to "Meet Wally's heart", was very educational.

"A good diet and well-balanced lifestyle are imperative for a healthy heart. Parents should encourage their school-going children to be screened for heart disease.

"Stress is also a big factor in today's fast-paced world. Needless to say, long-term exposure to all of these factors may cause damage to the cardiovascular and even cause a heart attack or stroke," said Katzke.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.