Understanding Heart Disease

Understanding Heart Disease: A Growing Concern in Pakistan

By Naeem Mustafa

PharmaServePK Blog

December 23, 2025

Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease (CVD), is one of the leading causes of death worldwide and a major health challenge in Pakistan. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), CVDs cause over 18 million deaths globally each year, with the majority from heart attacks and strokes. In Pakistan, ischemic heart disease tops the list of CVD-related deaths, accounting for nearly 22% of all fatalities. Prevalence among adults ranges from 17-26% in various studies.

As a pharmacy-focused platform, PharmaServePK aims to raise awareness about preventable health issues. This article covers the basics of heart disease, its types, causes, symptoms, the situation in Pakistan, and steps for prevention.

Understanding Heart Disease

What is Heart Disease?

Heart disease encompasses conditions that affect the heart's structure and function. The most common is coronary artery disease (CAD), where arteries become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis).

Other types include:

Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats, such as atrial fibrillation.

Heart failure: Inability of the heart to pump blood effectively.

Valve diseases: Issues with the valves regulating blood flow.

Congenital heart defects: Structural problems present from birth.

Rheumatic heart disease: Damage often stemming from untreated rheumatic fever, which remains relevant in developing regions like Pakistan.

Causes and Risk Factors

Lifestyle and environmental factors drive most cases. Major risk factors are:

High blood pressure (hypertension)

Elevated cholesterol levels

Smoking or tobacco use

Diabetes

Obesity and lack of physical activity

Unhealthy diet rich in salt, sugar, and saturated fats

Excessive alcohol intake

Stress and air pollution

In Pakistan, these risks are widespread. Hypertension affects around 37% of adults, diabetes prevalence is high at approximately 30.8% (age-adjusted), tobacco use is common (especially among men), and obesity rates are rising. Genetic predisposition and cultural practices like consanguineous marriages may contribute to earlier onset.

Symptoms and Warning Signs

Heart disease often progresses without noticeable symptoms until a major event like a heart attack occurs. Common indicators include:

Chest pain or discomfort (angina)

Shortness of breath

Pain radiating to the neck, jaw, throat, upper abdomen, or back

Unusual fatigue, dizziness, or nausea

Cold sweats

Women may experience less typical symptoms, such as fatigue or nausea, rather than intense chest pain. If any of these occur, seek emergency medical attention immediately—prompt action can save lives.

Heart Disease in Pakistan

Pakistan is experiencing a rising epidemic of CVD. Deaths from cardiovascular causes nearly doubled between 1990 and 2019, with ischemic heart disease responsible for over half. The condition affects urban and rural populations alike, impacting men and women similarly, though underdiagnosis in women is common. Factors include low awareness, limited healthcare access, urbanization leading to poor dietary habits, and increasing prevalence of risk factors.

Projections indicate that low- and middle-income countries like Pakistan will bear a growing CVD burden through 2050, primarily driven by hypertension, dietary risks, and high cholesterol.

Prevention and Treatment

Up to 80% of premature heart disease cases are preventable through lifestyle modifications:

Adopt a balanced diet emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing salt, sugar, and processed foods.

Engage in regular physical activity—at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly.

Quit smoking and moderate alcohol consumption.

Maintain a healthy body weight.

Manage stress effectively.

Schedule routine check-ups to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.

Treatment options range from medications (such as statins, antihypertensives, and blood thinners) to procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery. Adhering to prescribed treatments is crucial for managing the condition.

At PharmaServePK, we stress the importance of medication adherence and consulting qualified pharmacists for guidance on heart health.

Heart disease is largely preventable and manageable with informed choices and timely action. In Pakistan, tackling this issue requires enhanced community education, improved healthcare infrastructure, and supportive policies. Start protecting your heart today by consulting a healthcare professional and embracing healthier habits.

Stay healthy!

Naeem Mustafa

PharmaServePK Team