What is the difference between cardiovascular disease and heart disease?
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to strokes and diseases of the heart. Coronary heart disease (manifested by heart attacks) and strokes are the two CVD diseases which drive the mortality rates and are the most common causes of death in the U.S. Total cardiovascular disease refers to a group of disease and conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels including coronary heart disease, stroke, congestive heart failure, hypertensive disease, arterial disorders, and other cardiovascular diseases. Contrary to popular belief, cardiovascular disease is not an inevitable part of the aging process, and treating is will never improve heart health. Rather, lifestyle changes supported by policy and environmental changes can reduce the risk factors and prevent CVD. Heart disease is the most common form of CVD. While there are several types of heart disease, coronary heart disease (CHD) is the most common form. CHD is often characterized by atherosclerosis, angina (chest pain) and heart attack
