Circulatory diseases
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Circulatory Diseases: An Overview
Prevalence and Mortality of Circulatory Diseases
Circulatory diseases are a leading cause of illness, disability, and death globally. In Canada, ischemic heart disease, congestive heart failure, and cerebrovascular disease (stroke) are the most common circulatory diseases, significantly contributing to hospitalization and mortality rates. Similarly, in the European Union, circulatory diseases accounted for approximately 1.91 million deaths in 2015, representing 37% of all deaths, with ischemic heart diseases and strokes alone causing over 55% of these deaths.
Risk Factors and Socio-Demographic Disparities
The prevalence of circulatory system diseases (CSDs) has been increasing, as evidenced by a study in Hunan, China, which reported a significant rise in age-standardized prevalence from 14.25% in 2013 to 21.25% in 2018 among individuals aged 20 years and older. This increase was more pronounced among urban residents, females, and older age groups, highlighting significant socio-demographic disparities.
Impact of Low-Level Ionizing Radiation
Recent studies have explored the association between low-level ionizing radiation and circulatory diseases. A systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that even moderate- and low-level whole-body ionizing radiation exposures are linked to increased risks of circulatory diseases, with estimated excess population risks ranging from 2.5%/Sv in France to 8.5%/Sv in Russia. This suggests that radiation-related mortality from circulatory diseases could be significantly higher than previously estimated.
Economic Burden and Healthcare Expenditures
Circulatory diseases impose a substantial economic burden on healthcare systems. In the United States, medical care expenditures for circulatory diseases totaled $127.8 billion in 1995, accounting for 17% of all personal health care expenditures. These costs are expected to rise with the aging population, emphasizing the need for effective prevention and intervention strategies to manage healthcare expenditures.
Environmental and Socioeconomic Influences
Environmental factors such as air pollution have also been linked to circulatory diseases. In China, higher levels of sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions, coal consumption, and particulate matter (PM2.5) were significantly associated with increased mortality from hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and cerebrovascular disease. These findings underscore the importance of addressing environmental pollutants to mitigate the risk of circulatory diseases.
Prevention and Management Strategies
Efforts to prevent and manage circulatory diseases are crucial. The Circulatory Risk in Communities Study (CIRCS) in Japan has been instrumental in identifying risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and developing prevention programs. Additionally, traditional Chinese medicine, such as Rhodiola rosea, has shown potential therapeutic effects on cardiovascular diseases, including anti-myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury, lowering blood fat, and anti-thrombosis.
Conclusion
Circulatory diseases remain a major public health challenge worldwide, with significant implications for morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Addressing the socio-demographic disparities, environmental risk factors, and economic burden associated with these diseases is essential. Continued research and effective prevention strategies are vital to reduce the prevalence and impact of circulatory diseases on global health.
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