Heart Disease and Stroke

Heart Disease and Stroke: A Global Health Crisis – Risks, Symptoms, and Prevention

By Naeem Mustafa, Pharmacist | PharmaservePK Blog | January 2026

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), encompassing heart disease and stroke, are the leading cause of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), CVDs claimed an estimated 19.8 million lives in 2022, representing about 32% of all global deaths. Of these, over 85% were due to heart attacks and strokes. The burden is particularly heavy in low- and middle-income countries, where more than three-quarters of CVD deaths occur.

Recent projections from the Global Burden of Disease study indicate that crude CVD mortality could rise significantly, potentially reaching 35.6 million deaths annually by 2050 due to aging populations and increasing risk factors. However, age-standardized rates are declining in many regions thanks to improved prevention and treatment strategies.

Shared Risk Factors Driving the Epidemic

Heart disease and stroke share many modifiable risk factors, allowing for effective combined prevention efforts:

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): The top global risk factor.

Unhealthy Diet: Excessive salt, sugars, saturated fats, and processed foods; insufficient fruits and vegetables.

Tobacco Use: Greatly elevates risk through vascular damage.

Physical Inactivity: Contributes to obesity and other risks.

Obesity and Overweight: Rapidly increasing worldwide.

Diabetes: Substantially heightens CVD likelihood.

High Cholesterol: Promotes arterial plaque formation.

Excessive Alcohol and Air Pollution: Additional emerging threats.

Behavioral risks account for a large portion of the global burden, amplified by metabolic factors.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Prompt identification can save lives and minimize disability.

Heart Attack Symptoms:

Chest pain or discomfort (pressure, tightness, squeezing)

Pain extending to arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach

Shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, dizziness

Stroke Symptoms (Remember the FAST Test):

Face drooping

Arm weakness

Speech difficulty

Time to call emergency services immediately

Symptoms may differ, particularly in women, who might experience subtler signs such as fatigue or indigestion.

Prevention: Actionable Steps for All

Up to 80% of premature heart attacks and strokes are preventable. The American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8 offers a clear framework for optimal cardiovascular health:

Eat better (prioritize whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats).

Be more active (at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly).

Quit tobacco and avoid nicotine exposure.

Get healthy sleep (7-9 hours per night).

Manage weight.

Control cholesterol.

Manage blood pressure.

Manage blood sugar.

The 2024 AHA/ASA Guideline for the Primary Prevention of Stroke emphasizes these elements, along with targeted interventions like GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., semaglutide) for individuals with obesity and diabetes, stricter blood pressure goals (<130/80 mmHg for high-risk patients), and cautious use of low-dose aspirin.

Regular screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose—especially after age 40 or with family history—are essential.

The Role of Medications and Professional Guidance

For those with elevated risks, medications such as statins, antihypertensives, antidiabetics, and antiplatelets are crucial when combined with lifestyle changes.

As a pharmacist, I urge everyone to seek advice from healthcare providers, including pharmacists, for tailored recommendations, medication management, and ongoing support.

By prioritizing awareness, healthy habits, and equitable access to care, we can significantly reduce the worldwide impact of heart disease and stroke. Start protecting your heart today.

Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider for individual concerns.

Naeem Mustafa, Pharmacist

PharmaservePK – Dedicated to Global Health Improvement