Are heart problems just related to age? Is chest pain a heart attack? Here are some myths and facts to set it straight.

Heart disease, the world's leading killer, kills millions every year. Despite its prevalence, there are numerous misconceptions surrounding the condition, hindering awareness, prevention and effective management. Identifying these myths is important to promoting heart health.

Myth 1: Heart disease only affects the elderly

Fact: Heart disease affects people of all ages. Factors such as family history, obesity, smoking and physical inactivity increase the risk in all age groups.

Myth 2: Heart disease is a human disease

Fact: Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, accounting for 1 in 3 female deaths. Women's symptoms are often different from men's, leading to a delay in diagnosis.

Myth 3: Chest pain always accompanies a heart attack

Fact:Only 50% of heart attack victims experience chest pain. Others may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, or unusual pain in the arms, back, or jaw.

Myth 4: Heart disease is only caused by genetics

Fact:: Lifestyle factors such as smoking, physical inactivity and poor diet contribute significantly to the risk of heart disease.

Myth 5: Heart disease is inevitable

Fact: 80% of heart disease cases can be prevented through lifestyle changes, such as:

• Regular exercise (at least 150 minutes/week)
• A balanced diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
• Stress management (meditation, yoga, deep breathing)
• quit smoking
• Monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol

Myth 6: Normal blood pressure guarantees safety

Fact:: Other risk factors such as diabetes, obesity and family history can still contribute to heart disease.

Myth 7: Surgery is always necessary

Fact:: Lifestyle changes, medication, and non-invasive procedures (eg, angioplasty) can manage many cases of heart disease.

Heart disease is preventable and treatable. Knowing your risk factors, adopting healthy habits and consulting your healthcare provider can save lives.