The current status of cardiovascular disease in Canada--a call to action

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Health
• Public Health
• Nursing Practice

Background:

• The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada reported a growing burden of heart disease and stroke in 2003.
• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) poses a significant and increasing health challenge in Canada.
• Rising risk-provoking behaviors threaten the health of future generations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review key findings from the "The Growing Burden of Heart Disease and Stroke in Canada 2003" report.
• To explore the implications of the report's findings for nursing practice.
• To highlight the role of nurses in mitigating the impact of cardiovascular disease.

Main Methods:

• Review of a 2003 report by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.
• Analysis of contributing factors to the increasing burden of cardiovascular disease.
• Identification of nursing interventions for addressing risk behaviors.

Main Results:

• Cardiovascular disease burden is increasing due to multiple factors.
• Risk-provoking behaviors are on the rise despite awareness of consequences.
• The cost of cardiovascular care remains substantial.

Conclusions:

• Nurses are strategically positioned to influence cardiovascular disease statistics.
• A multifactorial approach is essential for treating cardiovascular disease.
• Addressing risk behaviors at multiple levels by nurses can lead to significant improvements.