The Link Between Lifestyle Choices and Cardiovascular Diseases

Abstract

In the twenty–first century, cardiovascular diseases have emerged as a major public health concern worldwide and are the leading cause of death globally. Although facets such as genetics and ethnicity are determinants in the progression of cardiovascular diseases, modifiable factors such as lifestyle habits constitute important elements that can influence the development of this pathogenesis (Mohseni Pouya et al., 2017). Therefore, the analysis of lifestyle determinants and their implications is a topic worthy of examination from the standpoint of preventing and delaying the development of cardiovascular diseases. This work focuses on a wide-ranging analysis of the different lifestyle factors associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. The results indicate that numerous elements, particularly sedentary behaviour, poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption, sleep disorders, smoking, excess weight, and high stress contribute significantly to the onset of cardiovascular disease. Conversely, adopting an active lifestyle, consuming a Mediterranean diet, maintaining moderate alcohol consumption, managing high-stress levels, attaining good-quality sleep, avoiding smoking, controlling weight, engaging in a pro-health social environment, preventing alcohol abuse, and limiting sedentary behaviour represent key protocols for reducing risk factors on cardiovascular health. Therefore, due consideration of lifestyle choices constitutes a crucial factor in the prevention and control of cardiovascular diseases.