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 The cardiovascular system is made up of the heart and blood vessels.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), as defined by the American Heart Association,
include coronary heart disease (coronary artery disease, ischemic heart
disease); stroke (brain attack); high blood pressure (hypertension); and
rheumatic heart disease.
About 71 million US adults have one or more forms of CVD.
Each year in the US, cardiovascular diseases top the list of most serious
health problems. Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death and stroke
is the third leading cause of death. Stroke is also the number one cause of
serious, long-term disability.
Yet, studies show that nearly everyone can become heart healthy by following
a healthful diet and participating in an appropriate exercise program;
eliminating tobacco products; and following a routine health care plan.
 Most important to toppling cardiovascular diseases as the number one cause of
disability and death, is early detection and early treatment.
At St. John's, you'll find the region's most powerful heart program,
performing more open heart surgeries than anyone in the state. Leading edge
diagnostics. Innovative treatment options, like drug-eluting stents that open
blood vessels and prevent them from re-narrowing. And the area's first Women's
Heart Center, dedicated to educating, screening and treating women for heart
disease, the number one killer of women today. When it comes to your heart, put
the power of one of the nation's Top 20 Health Systems on your side. |