Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention
Cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke,
is a leading cause of death in Minnesota.
The Heart Disease & Stroke Prevention (HDSP) Unit works to make all Minnesotans heart-healthy and stroke-free by focusing on the prevention, treatment, and management of cardiovascular disease and stroke. The HDSP Unit does this by facilitating effective collaborations and partnerships across the state. We translate cardiovascular disease data into practice through our epidemiologic and community planning expertise for public health, healthcare professionals and the public.
Heart Disease
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to conditions and diseases of the heart and blood vessels and includes coronary artery disease, angina, heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. |
Stroke
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel going to the brain is disrupted either by a blood clot or a ruptured vessel. This process is similar to that which occurs in a heart attack. Deprived of oxygen, the nerve cells in the affected area of the brain cannot function and often die. The parts of the body controlled by those cells are then unable to function. |
