Thinking and talking about the deadliest diseases all around the globe is one topic that is commonly discussed because caring for our health is very important. We might have our own ranks of the deadliest diseases but many of these might not even be on the most common causes of the deaths worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, over 56 million people passed away in 2015 and almost 70% of them are due to diseases that gradually developed.
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The TOP 5 Deadliest Diseases Worldwide
Most of these diseases are partially preventable and the factors that make it non-preventable includes the location where the person lives, access to preventive care, and also the quality of healthcare. Here are the Top 5 diseases that are causing most deaths worldwide:
Ischemic Heart Disease (Coronary Artery Disease).
This is the deadliest disease in the world and it happens when the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart narrows. When this is left untreated it can cause chest pains, heart failure, and arrhythmias. Even though this is still the leading cause of death, the mortality rates in most European countries have declined. The risk factors may include high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, smoking, history of coronary artery disease, diabetes, and also obesity.
One of the most effective ways to prevent Ischemic Heart Disease is by taking medications that will be prescribed by your doctor, and also by maintaining a good heart health. You can do this by exercising regularly, maintaining your weight, and also by eating foods that are low in sodium and more on fruits and vegetables. It can also help if you stop smoking and drink alcohol in moderation.
Stroke
A stroke happens when an artery on your brain is locked or it leaks which can cause oxygen-deprivation on the brain cells and it will begin to die in just a matter of minutes. During a stroke, a sudden numbness and confusion will be experienced and you will start to have problems walking and seeing. If you left this untreated, this can cause stroke and a long-term disability. Most people who get treatment within 3 hours are less likely to have disabilities.
The risk factors for stroke will include high blood pressure, a family history of the disease, smoking, and being a female. These risk factors can be reduced with proper preventive care, immediate medications, and lifestyle changes. Meaning, following a good health habit, can lower your risk for stroke. Surgery is one of the least options but this can be avoided as long as you control your blood pressure with a healthy lifestyle that is complete with regular exercise and a healthy low-sodium diet. Always avoid smoking and drink alcohol in moderation.
Lower Respiratory Infections
The Lower Respiratory Infection is a type of infection that affects your airways and your lungs. This can be due to flu or influenza, pneumonia, bronchitis, and also tuberculosis. Lower Respiratory Infections can be caused by viruses that cause the lower respiratory infections but these can also be caused by bacteria. Coughing is one of the major symptoms of a Lower Respiratory Infection and eventually you will feel breathless, you wheeze, and you will have a tight feeling on your chest. When you leave this untreated, this can lead to breathing failure, and even death.
The risk factors of Lower Respiratory Infections would usually include influenza or flu, a poor air quality of the surroundings or too much exposure to lung irritants, smoking, weak immune system, asthma, and also HIV. Getting the flu shot every year is one of the most effective ways to prevent Lower Respiratory Infections. There are people who have a high risk for pneumonia which they can also get a vaccine for. Always make sure that you wash your hands regularly with antibacterial soap and water because this can prevent the transmission of bacteria when you touch your face or before eating.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
This is a long-term and progressive lung disease that will make it difficult for the person to breathe. Some of the most common types of COPD are Chronic Bronchitis and Emphysema and it is believed that over 64 million people worldwide are living with COPD. The risk factors would include smoking or even second-hand smoking, chemical fumes and other lung irritants, a family history of COPD, and also a history of respiratory infections when you were a child.
Sadly, there is no known cure for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease but its progression can be slowed down by taking medication. One of the best ways to prevent COPD is to stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke as much as possible. When you start experiencing COPD symptoms, get help from your healthcare provider as soon as possible to prevent serious complications.
Trachea, Bronchus, and Lung Cancers
Respiratory cancers are one of the deadliest causes of death worldwide and this can affect the trachea, larynx, your bronchus, and also your lungs. One of the major causes is smoking and secondhand smoking, and also environmental toxins. Trachea, Bronchus, and Lung Cancers can affect anyone but those who are at high risk are the ones who have a history of smoking or tobacco use. Therefore, avoid these products at all costs because until now, there is no known method that can be done to prevent lung cancers. Early detection of Trachea, Bronchus and Lung Cancers is very important and can reduce the symptoms of respiratory cancer.
Having the knowledge about these deadliest diseases that cause most of the deaths worldwide is not to scare you, but for you to be aware of the possible reasons and help with early detection and treatment. It is very important that living an unhealthy life and having vices can cause a negative effect on your health. You are not only putting yourself at risk but also the people around you. If you think that you are currently experiencing any of these diseases, get in touch with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to know how your health is doing. They would also be able to help you determine the most effective preventive measures for you.