Cardiology Centre - Global Cardiovascular Risk Assessment Programme

Global Cardiovascular Risk Assessment Programme

Understanding Cardiovascular Diseases
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death and a major public health issue in Hong Kong and worldwide. Notably, coronary artery disease is the most prevalent among all cardiovascular diseases. In recent years, patients suffering from coronary artery disease are getting younger. As this disease sometimes strikes without noticeable warning signs, it is also known as the "silent killer".

Coronary artery disease is the result of fatty deposits (plaque) building up on the wall of the coronary artery which supplies oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. A narrowing or blockage in the coronary artery cuts off the vital supply to the heart muscle, resulting in ischemic heart disease. Plaque deposition can also lead to conditions such as hardening of arteries (atherosclerosis), chest pain or stroke.

Risk Assessment and Disease Prevention
Hypertension, diabetes, high concentration of low- density lipoprotein ("bad" cholesterol) and low concentration of high-density lipoprotein ("good" cholesterol) in blood and smoking are some of the modifiable risk factors of cardiovascular diseases. By a comprehensive evaluation of risk factors and non- invasive examinations, our Global Cardiovascular Risk Assessment Programme can help evaluate a patient's risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and formulate an appropriate action plan for those at intermediate and high risk.