Why are heart failure cases increasing?

Age is a factor. The Centers for Disease Control reports that 70 percent of the U.S. residents who have heart failure are 60 years of age or older. America's population is aging. Approximately 12.7 percent of America's population was 65 years of age or older in 2000. In 2020, an estimated 16.5 percent will be in this age group.

As America ages, a significant increase is expected in the prevalence of heart failure.

Approximately 5.8 million Americans have heart failure and 680,000 new cases are diagnosed every year. Heart failure is the number one reason for hospitalizations in individuals 65 years and older. Heart failure is the only cardiovascular disease on the rise.

The incidence and predominance of heart failure are increasing because "Baby Boomers" are now turning age 65 and the elderly population is becoming larger. Americans are also living longer, due in large part to modern technological advances in medicine. Individuals are now surviving diseases and illnesses that once were fatal because of more effective medicines and devices and cutting-edge, life-saving therapies.

Individuals who survive heart attacks (myocardial infarctions) are at increased risk for developing heart failure because the heart muscle has become weakened and has developed scarring from the damage.

As we age, we are in a prime position to acquire co-morbid conditions with time. Because of accepted lifestyle behaviors (which are modifiable!), most Americans eat too much saturated fat and high-sugar foods and they do not get enough activity on a regular basis (sedentary lifestyle). Because of this lifestyle, obesity, high cholesterol levels, and Diabetes are also on the increase. Obesity, hypercholesterolemia, and Diabetes are three risk factors for developing heart failure.