Cardiovascular health

Cardiovascular disease (also known as circulatory disease) comprises all diseases of the heart and blood vessels. It includes coronary heart disease, stroke, congestive cardiac failure (heart failure) and peripheral vascular disease. The main underlying cause of cardiovascular disease is a process known as atherosclerosis that clogs blood vessels. It is most serious when it affects the blood supply to the heart causing angina or heart attack, or to the brain, which can lead to a stroke.

This section contains the following:

• National Health Priority Areas background paper

• Resources