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Heart disease is a stealthy adversary that can go undetected in many people, often striking without warning. This silent nature makes it a significant public health concern, affecting millions who remain unaware of their condition until it's too late.

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is caused by the narrowing of heart arteries, leading to reduced blood and oxygen flow to the heart muscle. This restricted flow can result in a heart attack, a potentially fatal event. Alarmingly, many heart attacks are "silent," meaning they occur without noticeable symptoms or with symptoms so mild that they go unrecognized. According to the Cleveland Clinic, experts have said that these silent heart attacks account for a staggering 50% to 80% of all heart attack cases.

Dr. Chauncey Crandall, a renowned cardiologist and bestselling author, experienced the stealthy nature of heart disease firsthand. Despite his extensive knowledge and expertise in cardiovascular health, Dr. Crandall developed heart disease unexpectedly in his late 40s. "I had no family history of heart disease...and it came up suddenly," he shared with Newsline. His personal ordeal highlights that even those who are well-versed in medical science are not immune to the silent threat of heart disease.

The Silent Killer

Heart disease doesn't discriminate; it can affect men and women of any age, often without any prior warning signs. Dr. Crandall admitted that despite advising many on heart health, he failed to heed his own advice, leading to a near heart attack. This experience prompted him to author "The Simple Heart Cure: The 90-Day Program to Stop and Reverse Heart Disease," a book aimed at educating the public about the silent dangers of heart disease and how to combat it effectively.

Awareness and Prevention

Raising awareness about the silent nature of heart disease is crucial. Many people might not realize that they are at risk simply because they do not experience obvious symptoms, per the American Heart Association. Regular health check-ups, especially for those with risk factors like stress, poor diet, or a sedentary lifestyle, are essential for early detection and prevention.

Dr. Crandall emphasized the importance of rest and relaxation as part of heart health management, saying, "There are things that we can do to reverse heart disease, to prevent heart disease, and to get a better life. And that's what this book is about."

Staggering Statistics

According to the New York State Department of Health, approximately 695,000 people die of heart disease annually in the United States, making it responsible for 1 in every 5 deaths . Coronary heart disease, the most prevalent form, claims around 375,476 lives each year. Additionally, about 805,000 Americans experience a heart attack annually, with 605,000 being their first and 200,000 affecting those with a history of heart attacks.