Learn

There is no one cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD), but there are several factors that increase your risk – some that can be changed, and some that cannot.

Heart disease and heart attacks are often associated with middle aged or older men. However, women are just as affected.

Preeclampsia is high blood pressure that occurs during pregnancy and the postpartum period, affecting both the mother and unborn baby.

Stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is suddenly cut off. Blood contains oxygen and important nutrients for proper functioning. If brain cells do not get enough of this supply, they die.

Diabetes is a condition in which the body cannot maintain healthy blood glucose levels. Up to 14 per cent of pregnant women in Australia develop gestational diabetes during their pregnancy, while people living with type 2 diabetes are over twice as likely to develop cardiovascular disease.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD), also known as peripheral vascular disease, is a type of cardiovascular disease in which the narrowing of arteries results in reduced blood flow to a body part outside of the heart or brain.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a condition where the heart beats irregularly or rapidly.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to all the diseases of the heart and circulation, including coronary heart disease, atrial fibrillation, heart attack, congenital heart disease and stroke.

Atherosclerosis is the main underlying cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD).