The average age of patients seeking assistance from Blackrock Health's Rapid Cardiac Care service is just 63, dispelling the commonly-held misconception that heart problems are typically associated with people in a higher age bracket.
According to the National Prevention Council’s 2023 Report, heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, with over 9,000 people dying from it each year in Ireland, despite 80% of premature cases being considered preventable.
Blackrock Health’s '63-year-old reality check’ campaign encourages people to become more aware of their heart health from midlife onwards, with monitoring recommended from the age of 40 as a precautionary measure. Early detection is the best defence, and it’s important to be ‘Heart Smart’ by recognising common symptoms, understanding personal risk factors and taking steps to protect your heart.
Appearing on The Today Show, Dr Daniel O’Hare, Consultant Cardiologist at Blackrock Health, highlighted the importance of heart health.
As ageing progresses over 40, the consequences of neglectful lifestyle habits can become more apparent, particularly for those who smoke, lead a sedentary life or have a poor diet, which can result in risk factors presenting as high blood pressure, raised cholesterol and in some cases, diabetes. Paying closer attention to heart health becomes crucial with age. If caught early, many forms of heart disease can be slowed, halted or even reversed, often preventing the need for surgery
Dr O’Hare reminds us that prevention starts before symptoms occur. As part of routine health screenings, a yearly cardiac check-up is recommended from 40 onwards, especially for those with risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, smoking or a family history of heart disease. Regular monitoring and tests agreed with your healthcare provider are key steps in prevention.
Subtle signs like a reduced tolerance for exercise, struggling with breathlessness after climbing stairs or the development of heartburn can indicate early signs of heart trouble. It’s important to know your numbers for blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, and investigate any sharp changes over time.
More urgent care is required for red-flag symptoms of severe chest pain, shortness of breath, unexplained fatigue and losing consciousness. Those experiencing these symptoms should call their local Rapid Cardiac Care Service. Blackrock Health’s Rapid Cardiac Care is available in Dublin and Galway, with or without a GP referral.
The most common reasons for heart investigations at Blackrock Health hospitals are chest pain, arrhythmia and heart failure. If presenting with red-flag symptoms, you’ll receive fast and expert medical care on arrival, including an ECG, blood tests, angiography and a clinical examination. If deemed non-urgent, appropriate diagnostic tests will be arranged.
As we age, small lifestyle changes can help keep your heart strong to prevent complications. It’s never too late to incorporate regular exercise and a balanced diet into your daily habits. Quitting smoking and reducing or avoiding alcohol can play a huge role in improving both physical and mental health. The benefits are restored energy levels, improved sleep and a sense of wellbeing. If suspected heart problems arise, urgent symptoms should never be ignored as early assessment is crucial.
The Blackrock Health Rapid Cardiac Care service provides swift access to specialist cardiology teams in its Blackrock, Galway and Hermitage clinics, with or without a GP referral. Patients can be seen quickly, undergo essential tests and begin appropriate treatment without delay.
For more information, visit: https://www.blackrockhealth.com/rapid-cardiac-care
If you suspect you're having a heart attack, dial 999 immediately.