Cardiovascular diseases continue to be a significant health concern in Canada, affecting over 3 million Canadians, with over 750,000 individuals living with heart failure. Heart failure touches the lives of almost 1 in 3 Canadians, and over 100,000 new cases are diagnosed annually. The death rate for adults aged 20 and over with heart disease is three times higher than for those without, and this risk increases to over six times higher for adults aged 40 and over with a diagnosis of heart failure.
Men are twice as likely as women to suffer a heart attack, and they are often diagnosed with heart disease a decade earlier than women. These concerning statistics underscore the importance of innovative solutions, such as genetic testing and precision medicine, that can help identify and treat individuals at risk of developing heart disease, and ultimately improve outcomes for those already living with the condition.
As healthcare providers and researchers continue to work towards new treatments and interventions, it's important to raise awareness about heart health and encourage individuals to take proactive steps to protect their hearts, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and regular check-ups with their doctors.