Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels, and they are the leading cause of death globally. CVDs encompass a range of conditions, including diseases of the heart, blood vessels, or both, affecting the circulatory system. Here are the key types and aspects of CVDs:

1. Coronary Heart Disease: This occurs when the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart muscle (coronary arteries) become narrowed by a build-up of plaque, a condition known as atherosclerosis. It can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attacks, and other heart problems.
2. Cerebrovascular Disease: This refers to diseases of the blood vessels that supply the brain, such as stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel that feeds the brain gets blocked or bursts.
3. Peripheral Arterial Disease: This disease affects the blood vessels outside the heart and brain, often causing narrowing of vessels that supply blood to the legs and arms.
4. Rheumatic Heart Disease: This is caused by rheumatic fever, which results from streptococcal bacteria infections, and can damage heart valves and heart muscle.
5. Congenital Heart Disease: These are heart defects present from birth, affecting the structure and function of the heart.
6. Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism: Blood clots in the leg veins, which can dislodge and move to the heart and lungs.

Risk factors for CVDs include unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, harmful use of alcohol, hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, hyperlipidemia (high levels of lipids in the blood), and obesity. Genetics and family history also play a role.

Symptoms of CVDs can vary based on the specific condition but often include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, pain or numbness in the legs or arms, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat.

Diagnosis and Treatment: The diagnosis of CVDs often involves medical history, physical examinations, blood tests, ECGs, echocardiograms, and other imaging tests. Treatment varies depending on the specific type of CVD but may include lifestyle changes, medications, and surgical procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery.

Prevention and Management: Many CVDs can be prevented or managed with a heart-healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol intake. Regular health screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes are also crucial.

Given their prevalence and impact, CVDs are a significant focus in public health, with efforts aimed at both prevention and improving treatments for those affected.