Local Watford MP Dean Russell is calling for greater awareness of heart attack symptoms after he relayed his own experience of having a heart attack in August of last year.
February is ‘Heart Month’ and this debate will serve as a reminder of the prevalence of heart and circulatory conditions and the absolute need for ongoing research, awareness and support.
The majority of heart attacks are caused by coronary heart disease which causes your coronary arteries to become narrowed after a gradual build-up of fatty deposits. Every year, in the UK, there are up to 100,000 hospital admissions for heart attacks which is one every five minutes. It is estimated that there are around 1.4 million people alive today who have survived a heart attack.
Recent statistics reveal that someone dies from a heart or circulatory condition every three minutes in this country.
Dean passionately shared his personal experience of a heart attack during the debate, emphasising the need for greater awareness and proactive measures in tackling heart related diseases. At the age of just 47, having a heart attack was never something he expected, but proved to be a stark reminder that heart disease can affect anyone. Dean recounted the swift response and effective treatment he received from the NHS, including the East of England Ambulance Service, Watford General Hospital, and Harefield Hospital.
Dean received invaluable support from the British Heart Foundation (BHF) and praised the organisation’s information and advice, describing it as a lifeline during his recovery. Dean thanked the BHF for its efforts in promoting heart health and urged everyone to familiarise themselves with the lifesaving information they share. Knowing what we need to watch out for can be the difference between life and death.
Dean commented, 'I am very grateful to colleagues and constituents for their kindness and support since hearing of my heart attack. I would like to reiterate my sincere thanks to everyone involved in my care through the NHS. I couldn't have asked for better.
Parliament's Chamber Engagement have been running a consultation in advance of my debate on this issue. To date, more than 220 people have taken part and given real examples of the care and after care they received. I referenced this in my speech.
I am proud to be working with the British Heart Foundation to highlight the real concerns they have about the considerable delays to heart tests, procedures and operations. Receiving timely care is imperative to stop people having avoidable disabilities and sadly in many cases death.
It is also essential that we see an NHS led campaign to highlight the warning symptoms people need to look out for. During to my work with the British Heart Foundation, before becoming an MP, I knew the signs immediately and took urgent action'.
ENDS
Notes to the Editor
Common symptoms of a heart attack include:
• pain or discomfort in the centre of your chest that happens suddenly and doesn't go away
• pain that spreads to your left or right arm, or to your neck, jaw, back or stomach. For some people the pain or tightness is severe, while for others it’s uncomfortable. It may feel like heaviness, or a burning pain similar to indigestion
• feeling sick, sweaty, light-headed or short of breath.
Ring 999 if you are experiencing any of these symptoms as a heart attack is a medical emergency
