PEOPLE in the North West are more confused than any other region about the health risks concerning one of the nation's major killers.

More than 60 per cent of people interviewed in the region wrongly believe they would experience early warning signs of developing coronary heart disease (CHD).

And the same number held to the myth that an individual was more likely to die from a heart attack than survive.

The lack of understanding about CHD in the region was revealed at the start of Heart Check Action Week aimed at increasing awareness about the disease and prevention measures.

A survey commissioned by the Heart Check campaign revealed that three out of five people questioned regarded a pain in the chest as a warning sign - but this is indicative that CHD is already established.

For many other people a heart attack is the first and only symptom and fifty per cent of individuals survive it, although they will be at risk from further attacks in the future. Louise Batey, primary care coronary heart disease adviser, said that angina or heart attack victims can slow down or even halt the progression of CHD by controlling individual risk factors.

She said: "Coronary heart disease patients can give their hearts a second chance and prolong their lives."

Ann Townsend from the Association of British Cardiac Nurses said: "The survey revealed a basic lack of understanding and confusion concerning the health risks and implications of CHD within the population."

A free patient booklet entitled 'Take Heart, Take Action' has been produced for the Action Week from October 28 until November 3 and explains about the disease and the risk factors.

Anyone wanting a copy should send a stamped addressed A5 envelope to: Heart Check Patient Booklet, c/o Shandwick North, Albion Wharf, Albion Street, Manchester, M1 5LN.

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