The biggest cause of death in Pakistan is Ischaemic heart disease.
According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), ischaemic heart disease is the leading cause of mortality in Pakistan, significantly outpacing other major health issues. This highlights the critical need for preventative measures and better healthcare access focused on cardiovascular health within the country. The following table details the top causes of death and their rates per 100,000 population:
Leading Causes of Death in Pakistan
| Cause of Death | Rate per 100,000 Population |
|---|---|
| Ischaemic heart disease | 91.2 |
| Stroke | 48.9 |
| Preterm birth complications | 42.8 |
| Birth asphyxia and birth trauma | 39.1 |
| Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease | 30.3 |
This data emphasizes that heart-related conditions are a major public health concern in Pakistan. Understanding the causes and risk factors for ischaemic heart disease is vital for developing effective strategies to reduce its impact.
What is Ischaemic Heart Disease?
Ischaemic heart disease, also known as coronary artery disease, occurs when the blood flow to the heart is reduced, often due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries. This can lead to serious health issues such as:
- Angina: Chest pain or discomfort.
- Heart attack: Damage to the heart muscle due to lack of blood supply.
- Heart failure: The heart's inability to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
Contributing Factors to Ischaemic Heart Disease:
- Lifestyle Factors: Poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking.
- Underlying Conditions: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes.
- Genetic Predisposition: Family history of heart disease can increase risk.
Measures to Reduce the Risk:
- Healthy Diet: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in physical activity for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of heart disease.
- Manage Conditions: Control underlying health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
- Regular Checkups: Get regular checkups to monitor heart health.
Understanding and addressing these risk factors is crucial for reducing the prevalence of ischaemic heart disease and lowering mortality rates in Pakistan.
