Heart Disease and Brain Health

According to researchers, they have examined the evidence on factors that affect our blood vessels and heart health and shown that they also affect brain health. Heart is the foremost cause of death in America. Stroke ranks fifth, and it is also a leading cause of severe, long-term disability. Vascular—blood vessel—problems include atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis. Both are well-known contributors to heart disease. These same systems can also harm brain function by interfering with the stable supply of oxygen-rich blood that sustains brain cells. A healthy brain, maintained by sufficient blood flow, is essential for living a longer and fuller life. Brain health allows thought, prearranged action and emotional influences that influence the daily lives and growth of individuals, families and societies.