Facing Up to Heart Disease in Bradford

Let's Be Honest - It's a Big Problem

I'm not a doctor, just a regular guy from Bradford - born here, raised here. I've seen a lot change over the years, but one thing that hasn't improved fast enough is the health of the people around me. Especially when it comes to heart disease.

You see it in the uncles at weddings who've got that tight chest but laugh it off. The lads at the gym smashing weights but eating fried snacks like there's no tomorrow. The aunties cooking love-filled, spice-heavy food - but barely touching a vegetable. It's not judgement. It's concern.

What's Really Going On?

Bradford has one of the highest rates of heart disease in the UK. South Asian men like me? We're up to 50% more likely to suffer from it than the national average. That's not a small difference - it's a flashing red light.

• High blood pressure is common - and often goes undiagnosed
• Type 2 diabetes is more likely in our community
• Diets high in saturated fats and salt don't help
• Physical activity? Let's be honest - it's not always a priority

It's a tough reality to face, but it's also one that can change. Small choices build into bigger habits. You just have to start.

What Can be Done About It?

Medical science has progressed enormously over the last few years and many conditions that were once inevitably fatal can now be controlled or even cured and this is something that is likely to increase as new medical advances; perhaps via through Artificial Intelligence, come to light. We are also more aware ourselves of the need to live a healthier lifestyle.

So, What Can You Do Yourself?

You don't need to run marathons or switch to eating bland salads. Start by paying attention:

• Take a walk each day - not just to the takeaway
• Swap ghee for olive oil now and then
• Learn what your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers mean
• Cut down on sugar - yes, even in chai

It's not about perfection. It's about protection - for your kids, your parents, and yourself. You've got people who love you. Don't make them visit you in hospital before you take action.

Know the Signs - and Don't Be Stubborn

If you ever feel chest pain, shortness of breath, tightness, or pain in your arm or jaw - don't delay. Call 999. Don't wait to "see if it goes away." Heart attacks don't wait for your schedule to free up.

If you're unsure whether what you're feeling is serious, talk to your GP or call NHS 111. Trust me, it's better to be told you're fine than to wish you'd acted sooner.

Living with Heart Disease

If you've already had a diagnosis, don't panic - but don't ignore it either. Many people in Bradford live full lives after a heart attack or stent. But it takes effort, medication, and usually some honest conversations with yourself.

Keep appointments. Take your meds. Ask questions. You're not weak for needing help - you're brilliant for taking it.

A Final Word From a Concerned Friend

I've lost people to heart disease who might still be here if they'd acted sooner or lived a little differently. If you're reading this, you've already taken a step they didn't. So take another. Book a health check. Call your mum and go for a walk. Cook a curry with less salt and more veg.

You've got one heart. Look after it like you mean it.

Next: Symptoms

This site does not provide medical advice - if you or someone else has heart symptoms, seek help from a qualified healthcare professional immediately.