Blood and blood vessels

The heart and the vessels that carry blood around the body together make up the cardiovascular system. Learn more about how it functions.

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Circulatory system

Your body's circulatory system comprises the blood, heart and blood vessels. It moves oxygen and nutrients around the body, and removes carbon dioxide. Find out more, including about the problems that can occur.

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Heart

The heart pumps blood around the body to supply tissues with nutrition and oxygen. Find out about how it works and a number of health problems related to the heart.

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Heart and cardiovascular conditions

Learn more about the conditions that affect your heart and cardiovascular system, such as high blood pressure, angina and heart disease.

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Heart disease surgery

Trusted information about heart disease surgery from leading Australian health organisations, including links to cardiovascular disease.

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Anatomy

The human body has many different systems and organs that all serve different function. Learn more about the brain, heart, digestive system and other parts of the body.

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Atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (when part of the heart ‘quivers’ rather than beating normally) could lead to a stroke. Know the symptoms and decrease your risk.

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Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy is a heart condition caused by a damaged heart muscle. Discover what's behind cardiomyopathy, and how to manage it.

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Cholesterol and lipid tests

A cholesterol (or lipid profile) test looks at the various levels of cholesterol and other fats in your blood.

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White blood cells

White blood cells are a vital part of your immune system, detecting and dealing with infections. Find out more more about health problems involving white blood cells.

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Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of fat in your blood and are usually measured along with cholesterol. Find out more about the impact of high triglyceride levels.

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Heart attack

Acting fast when you notice the warning signs of a heart attack could save your life — or someone else's. Here's how to recognise the symptoms.

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Aortic dissection

Aortic dissection is a rare but serious condition where there is a tear in the innermost wall of the aorta — the largest artery in the body.

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What is a haematologist?

A haematologist is a specialist doctor who treats conditions that affect the blood – such as leukaemia and haemophilia – and the organs that make the blood.

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Electrocardiogram (ECG)

To find out how well your heart is working, your doctor may ask you to have an electrocardiogram (ECG). Learn more about it and why you may need an ECG.

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5 ways to reduce your risk of heart disease

Nine in 10 Australians have at least one risk factor for heart disease, but there are ways to reduce your risk and keep your heart healthy.

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Controlling coronary heart disease

If you are living with coronary heart disease, making healthy lifestyle choices can greatly reduce your risk of further heart problems. Find out more here.

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Resting heart rate

Resting heart rate is the number of times your heart beats per minute when you are at rest. Learn why it’s an important sign of your heart health and how to check it.

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Red blood cells

Red blood cells carry oxygen around your body and transport carbon dioxide to the lungs. Learn about related health problems and how a healthy diet can help produce red blood cells.

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Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance made by your body and also found in food. It is needed for good health, but too much can increase your risk of heart disease.

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Heart transplants

A heart transplant is an operation to replace a damaged heart with a healthy donor heart. Learn about waiting lists and life after a transplant.

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Heart palpitations

If you become suddenly aware of your heartbeat, especially if it’s faster or harder, you could be having palpitations. Learn how to spot the signs.

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Staying healthy when you have a heart condition

It's important to stay healthy if you have a heart condition and you can look after your heart by having a healthy lifestyle.

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What causes peripheral vascular disease?

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is usually caused by a build-up of fatty deposits on the walls of the arteries inside the legs. Find out what can cause PVD.

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Statins

Statins are medicines used to lower cholesterol. They are recommended for people who are at risk of cardiovascular disease. Find out more about how statins work and read our trusted partner pages.

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Dietary fats

The body needs some fats and oils as part of a balanced diet. But some fats (unsaturated fats) are healthier than others (saturated and trans fats).

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Is butter really better?

Butter is back in fashion because it's 'all natural', but since it's high in fat, is it healthier than margarine? And what about cholesterol-lowering spreads?

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Health benefits of sex and love

Some scientific studies suggest that love and sex can bring benefits such as lower blood pressure. Find out how cupid's arrow can boost your health.

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How to lower cholesterol

High cholesterol levels increase your risk of heart disease and stroke - here's how you can help lower the level of cholesterol in your blood.

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5 heart health myths, busted

Heart disease is the leading underlying cause of death in Australia. Knowing how to look after your heart is essential, but there's a lot of misinformation out there.

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