As the average age of patients presenting to Rapid Cardiac Care is just 63, Blackrock Health is encouraging people to take be ‘Heart Smart’ in midlife*
New data from Blackrock Health has shown that the average age of patients attending its Rapid Cardiac Care service is just 63, a stark reminder that heart problems can often emerge earlier than many people expect and are not solely an “older person’s” issue.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide. The most recent data shows that nearly 9,000 people in Ireland die from CVD each year, despite evidence that up to 80% of premature cases are preventable.[1]
On the back of this data, Blackrock Health has launched the “63-Year-Old Reality Check” to encourage people to be ‘Heart Smart’ and give their heart health the attention it deserves earlier in life.
Dr Daniel O’Hare, Consultant Cardiologist at Blackrock Health outlines some of the most common cardiovascular conditions, how to look after your heart and what to do if you experience cardiac symptoms.
Dr Daniel O’Hare
Q&A with Dr Daniel O’Hare, Consultant Cardiologist at Blackrock Health
Dr Daniel O’Hare, Consultant Cardiologist at Blackrock Health says: “Heart disease and cardiac issues are not just an issue for older people. We are increasingly seeing risk factors and diagnoses in patients in their 40s and 50s. Stress, high blood pressure, raised cholesterol and a sedentary lifestyle can all have serious consequences if left unaddressed. Recognising the signs early and taking proactive steps can save lives.”
What are the most common cardiovascular conditions, and what causes them?
“The most frequent reasons that people present to our Rapid Cardiac Care service include chest pain, arrhythmias and heart failure. Cardiovascular problems are often linked to risk factors including inactivity, smoking, obesity and family history. They may also develop silently over time due to atherosclerosis, which is the gradual build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries.”
When do things start to change, and at what age should heart health become a real priority?
“From your 40s onwards, the long-term impact of lifestyle habits often starts to surface. For those who are sedentary, smoke, or have an unbalanced diet, this may translate into high blood pressure, raised cholesterol or even diabetes. At the same time, many people in their 40s are juggling demanding, stressful routines, and stress-related symptoms can sometimes disguise an underlying cardiac issue. It’s a stage of life when paying closer attention to your heart becomes essential.”
Which symptoms should never be ignored, regardless of age?
Dr O’Hare explains: “Many assume it is ‘normal’ to feel breathless when climbing stairs, struggle with housework, or tire easily during exercise, but this is not always the case. Chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness and unusual fatigue should never be dismissed as signs of ageing. These symptoms may signal an underlying heart problem and warrant immediate medical attention.”
How important is early diagnosis in cardiovascular disease?
“Early detection can change the course of a patient’s life. Identifying heart issues before a cardiac event such a heart attack, for example, allowing us to intervene with medication and, importantly, support people to make lifestyle changes that can reduce risk or manage the condition.”
If symptoms are silent, how can people seek help early?
“From the age of 40, a cardiac check-up should form part of routine health screening with your GP. For people with additional risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle or a family history of heart disease, regular monitoring is especially important. Agreeing the right frequency of consultations and tests with your healthcare provider depending on your history is essential for prevention.”
Is it ever “too late” to change lifestyle habits?
“Never. It is always the right time to introduce regular physical activity, adopt a balanced diet, stop smoking, and reduce or eliminate alcohol. The benefits go far beyond test results, people report improved energy, better sleep, and an overall sense of wellbeing. Both physical and mental health improve significantly.”
If someone is worried about their heart health or experiencing concerning symptoms, what should they do?
“If you notice chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness or an irregular heartbeat, it’s vital not to ignore these warning signs. The earlier you are assessed, the better the outcomes”, reinforces the Dr O’Hare.
The Blackrock Health Rapid Cardiac Care service provides swift access to specialist cardiology teams in Blackrock, Galway and Hermitage clinics, with or without a GP referral. Patients can be seen quickly, undergo essential tests, and begin appropriate treatment without delay.
For more information about Rapid Cardiac Care at Blackrock Health, visit: https://www.blackrockhealth.com/our-services/rapid-cardiac-care.
Fact file – Cardiovascular health in Ireland
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in Ireland, responsible for nearly 9,000 deaths each year.1
- Up to 80% of premature CVD cases are considered preventable.1
- The average age of patients presenting to Blackrock Health’s Rapid Cardiac Care service is just 63: a reminder that heart disease can develop much earlier than many expect.*
- The most common cardiac presentations to Rapid Cardiac Care are chest pain, arrythmia and heart failure. *
- Key risk factors include smoking, physical inactivity, obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes and family history.
- Symptoms that should never be ignored include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness and unexplained fatigue.
*Source: Blackrock Health Rapid Cardiac Service presentation data
About Blackrock Health
Blackrock Health, combining Hermitage, Blackrock, Galway and Limerick Clinics, employs more than 3000 staff and provides easy access for patients to 600 highly skilled consultants in 50 medical specialties. Together, our hospitals have a total of 418 inpatient beds including 28 ICU beds and 22 operating theatres. Each of our hospitals delivers world-class clinical care and world-class comfort to our privately insured and self-paying patients. Together, we cared for more than 360,000 patients last year. Blackrock Health’s hospitals have built strong reputations for delivering excellence in clinical care and a personal, patient-centred approach with access to cutting edge treatments and technology in modern facilities.
We offer a full range of services in our conveniently located hospitals where our focus is on putting our patients first. Blackrock Health is part of Parma Health, a division of the Parma Group.
