Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally, according to the World Health Organisation, despite the fact most cardiovascular diseases can be prevented by addressing risk factors such as tobacco use, an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity and excessive alcohol.
Statistics from the Ministry of Health show each week more than 55 New Zealand women die from heart disease – caused when fatty deposits or plaques build up in the arteries that supply blood to organs such as the heart, kidneys and brain. This affects blood flow, so organs don’t get the oxygen