The human body is composed of various organs that support daily activities. One vital organ is the heart, which pumps blood containing oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. About the size of a fist, the heart has four main chambers composed of cardiac muscle (myocardium) and functions through electrical impulses controlled by the autonomic nervous system. Heart health significantly impacts quality of life, so maintaining it is key to carrying out daily activities smoothly.
Types of Heart Disease
Several types of heart disease, including:
1. Coronary heart disease (CHD): Narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries due to fatty plaque, which restricts blood flow to the heart muscle.
2. Congenital heart disease: Structural abnormalities of the heart present from birth, such as leaky valves or a hole in the septum.
3. Endocarditis: Infection of the inner lining of the heart (endocardium), often caused by bacteria.
4. Arrhythmia: An abnormal heart rhythm, such as too fast (tachycardia) or too slow (bradycardia).
5. Heart failure: A condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively throughout the body.
The main cause of heart disease is often atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of fatty plaque on the walls of the arteries. As we age, this plaque hardens and narrows the blood vessels, restricting blood flow. If left untreated, this condition can trigger a heart attack (myocardial infarction).1,2
Risk Factors for Heart Disease
The main risk factors for heart disease include:
- Smoking, which damages blood vessel walls.
- High cholesterol levels.
- Diabetes mellitus.
- Obesity or being overweight.
- Thrombosis or blood clots.
- Hypertension (high blood pressure).
- Family history (genetic factors).
- Lack of physical activity.
- Excessive alcohol consumption.
Simple Steps to Maintain Heart Health
To prevent heart disease, apply the following steps consistently:
- Healthy eating patterns: Increase fiber intake from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, limit intake of salt, sugar, and saturated and trans fats.
- Regular exercise: Engage in aerobic activities such as walking for 30 minutes a day, swimming, or cycling for at least 150 minutes a week.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol: Quit smoking completely and limit alcohol.
- Manage stress: Practice meditation, yoga, or relaxation breathing.
- Get enough rest: Sleep 7–9 hours per night.
- Routine check-ups: Get health screenings, especially if you have high-risk factors, such as blood pressure and cholesterol checks.
The heart is a vital organ because it plays a crucial role in the body. Maintaining heart health allows for smooth daily activities and improves quality of life.
Reference:
1. Fauzan Azhari. Jantung. Halodoc. Last reviewed: October 27, 2025. Available at: https://www.halodoc.com/kesehatan/jantung
2. Kevin Adrian. 9 Faktor Risiko Penyakit Jantung Koroner. Alodokter. Last reviewed: December 11, 2025. Available at: https://www.alodokter.com/lebih-jauh-tentang-penyakit-jantung-koroner
3. World Health Organization. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Last reviewed: 2023. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cardiovascular-diseases-(cvds)