CEO highlights the impact of ongoing research on the evolution of healthcare
A new survey by the Heart & Stroke Foundation has revealed that Canadians believe early detection and treatment of medical risk factors, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, have been key to improving heart and brain health. According to a news release, this focus remains a top priority as heart disease and stroke continue to affect millions across the country.
The poll, conducted between June 25 and July 9, 2024, found that while there has been a 75% decrease in the death rate from heart disease and stroke over the last 70 years, these conditions remain the second leading cause of death in Canada. More than 3.5 million Canadians live with heart disease, stroke, or related conditions. Six in 10 Canadians have been personally affected by these conditions, but only two in 10 are aware of the significant decline in mortality rates.
Research has played a crucial role in reducing deaths from heart disease, the report highlighted. The poll found that deaths from heart disease caused by high cholesterol dropped by 34% between 1990 and 2019. This decline is due to the availability of medications like statins and public health policies aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles.
Managing risk factors is key
According to the survey, Canadians believe early identification and treatment of medical risk factors are the most important factors in improving heart and brain health. Other priorities include better treatments and advancements in diagnosis. Managing these risk factors remains essential for reducing the toll of heart disease and stroke in Canada.
An example of the importance of medical advances can be seen in the story of Sujatha Krishnan, a 71-year-old who has undergone multiple heart surgeries, including bypass and valve replacement procedures. Despite her health challenges, she has credited these treatments with allowing her to enjoy time with her family. “There has been lots of pain and physical stress, but I have still lived a full life,” Krishnan said.
Doug Roth, CEO of Heart & Stroke, highlighted the progress made in recent decades. “There has been incredible progress over the past several decades thanks to research, advocacy, systems change and public awareness,” Roth said. “Smoking rates have decreased dramatically from 50% in the 1960s to currently about 12%. More and better medications are available to treat risk factors and conditions. Groundbreaking procedures such as open-heart surgery and endovascular thrombectomy for strokes are saving lives and improving outcomes.”
Heart transplants are another area where medical advancements have led to better outcomes. Since the first Canadian transplant in 1968, one-year survival rates have reached 90%.
Continued need for research
The poll highlighted overwhelming support for more research on heart disease, stroke, and related conditions. Roth emphasized the need for continued investment in research and public awareness campaigns to improve prevention and treatment.
“We have done so much to improve heart and brain health, but we can’t stop now. We need to continue to fund critical research, raise awareness, improve prevention, save more lives and enhance recovery for people living with heart disease and stroke and their caregivers,” he said.
