HEALTH TOPICS 
Cardiovascular disease and heart disease: What's the difference?
On call
Q. I have read articles that use the terms cardiovascular disease and heart disease interchangeably. Are they the same? And should I be more concerned with one than the other?
A. The term cardiovascular disease is broad and a bit vague. Its definition encompasses heart disease and much more.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise