Causes of Cardiovascular Disease Based on TCM:
From a Chinese medicine perspective the poor flow of blood in the lower limbs can be seen either as a localised problem or as the tip of a much larger iceberg, and the skill of the practitioner lies in determining which this is and focusing their treatment accordingly. Chinese medicine is based on an entirely different way of looking at the body, mind and emotions as a flow of energy, called 'qi'. Diagnosis and treatment is aimed at identifying where the flows of energy are blocked, deficient or over-flowing and using fine needles to stimulate change towards what is normal.

The fact that the treatment is described in these terms does not mean that the Chinese were unaware of blood flow. There is considerable evidence that they were well aware of the flow of blood long before scientists like Harvey were credited with its discovery in the West. However, they saw the flow of blood as a part of a wider system of flow in which all aspects of bodily functions could be improved.


Causes of Cardiovascular Disease in Western Medicine:
There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Smoking, including second-hand smoke, can affect the lining and inner layers of the arteries the feed the heart (coronary arteries), leading to cardiovascular disease. Nutrition also plays an important role in development of cardiovascular disease as high levels of trans-unsaturated fats and cholesterol can lead to plaque formation.  Elevated blood sugar due to insulin resistance and inflammation of the arteries are also risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease.  A family history of cardiovascular disease may also predispose one to developing a similar condition.

Risk factors for cardiovascular disease
The most important behavioural risk factors of heart disease and stroke are unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use and harmful use of alcohol. The effects of behavioural risk factors may show up in individuals as raised blood pressure, raised blood glucose, raised blood lipids, and overweight and obesity. These "intermediate risks factors" can be measured in primary care facilities and indicate an increased risk of developing a heart attack, stroke, heart failure and other complications.

Cessation of tobacco use, reduction of salt in the diet, consuming fruits and vegetables, regular physical activity and avoiding harmful use of alcohol have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. In addition, drug treatment of diabetes, hypertension and high blood lipids may be necessary to reduce cardiovascular risk and prevent heart attacks and strokes. Health policies that create conducive environments for making healthy choices affordable and available are essential for motivating people to adopt and sustain healthy behaviour.