Artery blockages and blowouts: targeting vascular disease with exercise

Abstract

Overview: The recent National Heart Foundation campaign highlighted that cardiovascular disease is one of Australia's biggest “serial killers” with an ageing population contributing to an exponential rise in vascular diseases including peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). Greater than 15 % of older adults ( > 65 years) worldwide suffer from PAD and/or AAA and exhibit reduced physical function and mobility, low levels of physical activity, poor quality of life and an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Exercise shows great promise as an adjunct therapy for these conditions however, there is currently a lack of understanding about the types of exercise that should be recommended, and the safety and risks imposed by exercise for vascular disease. This symposium brings together prominent researchers in the field and will be of significant interest for researchers and health/medical practitioners involved in cardiovascular disease management. Associate Professor Anthony Leicht will highlight the latest updates on exercise for vascular disease management; Associate Professor Chris Askew will explore the mechanisms associated with exercise-induced benefits for vascular disease patients; and Dr Tom Bailey will review what we currently know about the safety and vascular benefits of exercise, for patients with aortic aneurysms.