Deaths from heart attacks: Turkey ranks first in the European Union!
While cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in Turkey, the high rate of heart attack cases has reached alarming levels. Experts, noting that approximately 300 thousand people suffer a heart attack each year, state that about 66 percent of these cases result in death. In terms of deaths caused by heart attacks, Turkey ranks first when compared to European Union countries.
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Prof. Dr. Serkan Durdu, a member of the International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery, drew attention to the high rate of heart attacks in Turkey, stating that approximately 353 out of every 100 thousand people suffer a heart attack.
While this rate is 399 in Germany, 179 in France, and 149 in the United Kingdom, he emphasized that the biggest problem in Turkey is the low survival rate for those who suffer a heart attack. "The survival rate after a heart attack is quite low in Turkey. Every year, approximately 200 thousand people lose their lives due to heart attacks. In Germany, this rate is 45 percent, in the United Kingdom it is 30 percent, and in France it is 33 percent. However, in Turkey, this rate is 66 percent, meaning two-thirds of those who suffer a heart attack lose their lives. This picture clearly shows that our emergency response systems need to be further strengthened," he said.
"EARLY INTERVENTION IS VITAL"
Emphasizing that a heart attack can progress insidiously and that recognizing symptoms early is life-saving, the expert continued: "Neglecting symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, and palpitations can lead to irreversible consequences. It is very important to call the 112 emergency hotline as soon as you notice heart attack symptoms and to apply to a healthcare facility as soon as possible. Timely intervention can significantly increase survival rates."
WE ARE AHEAD OF GERMANY, THE UNITED KINGDOM, AND FRANCE IN POST-HEART ATTACK DEATHS
Turkey's heart attack data shows significant differences when compared to countries with similar populations. While 399 out of every 100 thousand people in Germany suffer a heart attack, the death rate is lower. France and the United Kingdom lag behind Turkey in both heart attack incidence rates and death rates.
Explaining this situation, the expert said, "Difficulties in early access to the healthcare system and the public not being sufficiently aware of heart health affect us negatively. In addition, it is of great importance not to neglect regular health check-ups."
"HEALTHY LIFESTYLE HABITS SHOULD BE PROMOTED"
Emphasizing that it is possible to prevent heart attacks and drawing attention to the importance of healthy lifestyle habits, the expert stated, "Balanced nutrition, regular exercise, staying away from cigarettes, and managing stress are fundamental steps to protect heart health. Furthermore, individuals with risk factors should not neglect regular health check-ups. Protecting your heart is protecting your life."