A Calgary doctor says heart failure could become an epidemic if the younger generation doesn't start taking care of themselves.
"We've seen a dramatic increase in obesity...and type two diabetes and this translates directly into a heart failure epidemic in the future," says Dr. Jonathan Howlett.
Dr. Howlett says people often associate shortness of breath, sudden weight gain, swollen ankles and legs with getting older. But heart failure comes on gradually and these symptoms can actually be signs of heart failure.
"It's important to catch it early because, just like a heart attack, the better your chances are of a complete reversal," says Dr. Howlett.
For more information about heart failure, and its signs and symptoms, click on the Heart and Stroke link to the right.
