Fewer people in Scotland are suffering heart disease and strokes according to new statistics published.
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Figures show that, over the past 10 years:
• new cases of Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) have decreased by 27.3%
• new cases of cerebrovascular disease (CVD or stroke) have fallen by 21%

Falkirk West MSP and Public Health Minister Michael Matheson said:

“These figures show that the Scottish Government’s strategy for tackling heart disease and stroke is delivering real results for patients both at the local level here in Forth Valley and nationally.

“It is fantastic that NHSScotland is continuing to make significant cuts in the number of deaths from heart disease and stroke.

“The Heart Disease and Stroke Action Plan sets out a comprehensive programme for further reducing deaths at whatever age from both heart disease and stroke. The plan focuses not just on providing the best possible care in the acute setting, but in helping people’s longer-term recovery in their own communities.

“But any future improvements will largely depend on people’s lifestyles – eating better, being more active, stopping smoking and drinking sensibly, this is a message which I will continue to press, as we are taking firm action in all these areas to support people to live healthier lives.”