Heart Disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart disease and stroke, remains the leading cause of death in the United States despite improvements in prevention, detection, and treatment. CVD is no longer thought of as a disease that primarily affects men as they age. It is a killer of people in the prime of life, with more than half of all deaths occurring among women.

Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of disability among working adults. Stroke alone accounts for the disability of more than a million Americans. The economic impact on the health system grows larger as the population ages. In 2001, the estimated cost of health care expenditures and lost productivity attributable to cardiovascular diseases was $298 billion.
Cardiovascular Disease in New York State

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of death in New York State, killing more than 70,000 residents each year. For every person who dies from a heart attack or angina, 18 people live with these conditions. For every person who dies from a stroke, seven people cope with the consequences of a non-fatal event. Many of these survivors are disabled and cannot lead productive lives. They also are at high risk for additional events. These numbers are increasing as the epidemic of heart disease and stroke continues.
Learn More About Cardiovascular Disease

* Cardiovascular Health in New York State
* Coronary Heart Disease, About
* Coronary Heart Disease in New York State
* Diet and Cardiovascular Disease
* Physical Inactivity and Cardiovascular Disease
* Stroke

New York Programs to Improve Cardiovascular Health

* Healthy Heart Program
* Community Healthy Heart Contractors (2003-2007)
* Healthy Heart Program School and Worksite Contractors (2005-2010)
* Binghamton (NY) Low-Fat Milk Campaign Summary
* Guidelines for Healthy Meetings
* Heart Check - Assessing Worksite Support for a Heart Healthy Lifestyle (PDF, 217MB, 21pg.)

Statistics and Data

* Cardiovascular Disease Data and Statistics