Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is a general term used to describe several conditions which affect the heart and blood vessels (circulatory system). These conditions include:

• Coronary heart disease (heart attack and angina)
• Stroke and Transient Ischaemic Attack
• Diabetes
• Chronic Kidney Disease
• Peripheral Vascular Disease.

Our services

We are now working towards free NHS Health Checks for both men and women aged 40-74 to check for CVD.

Other CVD services include:

• Cardiac rehabilitation
• Diabetes
• Stroke

Reducing the risk of CVD

CVD is the most common cause of death and disability for people living in the east and north of Birmingham. In fact, it is the biggest killer in the United Kingdom. Death rates are considerably higher in those of a South Asian ethnic origin (such as Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi) and those living in deprived areas.

You can reduce your risk of developing CVD, or manage CVD-related issues, by considering some of the following actions:

• Stopping smoking
• Being physically active
• Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet
• Only drinking moderate amounts of alcohol
• Controlling high blood pressure
• Reducing your cholesterol level
• Controlling your blood glucose (sugar) levels if you have diabetes
• Our health and wellbeing section has details of several services that can help you achieve these aims.

Useful links

• British Heart Foundation
• Diabetes UK
• Kidney Research UK
• The Stroke Association

Comments and complaints

Contact Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Trust for patient feedback and complaints.