ReadMyHeart

71.3 million Americans have some form of CVD and the number is gradually increasing.

CVDs rank as America's No. 1 killer with 2.4 millions of deaths each year.

Globally, 16.7 million people die from CVDs each year. By 2020, this number is estimated to increase to 25 millions.

50% of deaths and disabilities caused by CVDs can be reduced by decreasing major CVD risk factors.

In the US, the direct and indirect costs of CVDs/strokes in 2006 are estimated to be $403 billions. (Indirect costs include lost productivity).

CVD is the largest single cause of mortality among women, accounting for 1/3 of deaths in women worldwide. Indeed, strokes are responsible for twice the number of deaths in women as all the types of cancers combined.

To learn more about Cardiovasculare Diseases, visit the American Heart Association's website at www.americanheart.org.