Heart Awareness Month, which takes place in September, aims to increase public understanding of cardiovascular disease in South Africa, its risk factors, and the value of living a healthy lifestyle to stave against disease development. According to Dr. Marion Morkel, Chief Medical Officer of Sanlam, the stressed environment of today might be bad for heart health and should worry all South Africans, regardless of age.
The impact of stress on cardiovascular disease
Dr. Morkel claims that stress has a substantial impact on the delicate balance of our autonomic nervous system, which guarantees that the heart beats rhythmically without conscious effort.
She explains, “Chronic stress alters the hormonal system, leading to frequent cortisol releases. Over time, this weakens the body’s ability to manage its cardiovascular system, contributing to the formation of atherosclerosis (the buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in and on the artery walls called plaque). This plaque formation strains the heart muscle and vessels, which can result in a heart attack or a stroke.”
Heart disease: Not just a concern for the elderly
Sanlam’s 2022 research indicates that cardiovascular disease was the main cause of the group’s death and funeral claims. According to Dr. Morkel, anyone can acquire heart disease, although the risk increases with age.
“Sanlam’s records reveal payouts for conditions like myocardial infarction (MI) and preventative procedures such as angioplasties in individuals as young as their 30s.”
She continues by stating that current research shows obesity, which was once primarily linked to wealthier countries, is now a worldwide issue affecting even low-income nations as a result of the availability of unhealthy, processed foods. Another important risk factor for non-communicable illnesses like heart attacks and strokes is this one.
With cardiovascular illness as the leading cause of both death (21%) and disability (23%) claims, Sanlam’s 2022 claims data emphasizes the persistent severity of non-communicable diseases. Additionally, the data from the group reveals that more than 25% of death claims and 55% of disability claims were from individuals under the age of 55. The need for coverage among younger South Africans was further highlighted by a 6% increase in claims for permanent disability for those between 26 and 35.
The potential of losing their ability to produce an income is the biggest financial risk younger South Africans face because they have a lot of working years ahead of them.
Precautions for young South Africans with a genetic predisposition
For young adults with a family history of cardiovascular disease, Dr. Morkel is adamant that there is hope. These people must make it a priority to regularly check their vital statistics, including blood pressure, cholesterol, resting heart rate, and glucose level.
“While genetics play a vital role, lifestyle changes can delay or even prevent the onset of these diseases. Prioritising a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management can greatly alter one’s trajectory.”
Prioritise a healthier, less stressful lifestyle
Sanlam Product Actuary Petrie Marx urges individuals to utilise Heart Awareness Month as the impetus to take preventative measures because the majority of South Africans lead stressful lifestyles. This entails adopting a healthier lifestyle and learning about heart disease prevention and healthy lifestyle choices.
People should prioritise their heart health by visiting the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s website, which is filled with useful information. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and managing problems like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, people can, for instance, avert up to 80% of heart diseases and strokes before the age of 70.
Secure a healthier future with proper cover
Financial hardships affect a lot of South Africans, making comprehensive coverage unlikely. Marx advises South Africans to buy insurance while they are still young, healthy, and have not yet been afflicted in the same way as their family members have been in order to combat this, especially for those with a family history of cardiovascular disease.
“People don’t have to sacrifice comprehensive severe illness coverage completely. They can layer it with a portion of cardiovascular-only cover that incorporates a range of cardiovascular causes. That way, they still have some comprehensive coverage with additional coverage for cardiovascular disease. The cover should not be limited to severe illness but rather a balanced portfolio including death and disability cover, as cardiovascular is also a main cause of claims for those benefits. I always suggest people consult with a qualified financial planner to personalise a unique solution to their specific needs and budget,” he adds.
The urgency of addressing the rising rates of cardiovascular disease among South Africans under 40 is highlighted by Heart Awareness Month. In South Africa, preventive measures like regular health checks, a balanced diet, and stress management can help people prioritise their health from an early age. These measures go beyond heredity.
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