A MAJOR campaign to help tackle the one of the biggest killers in Bradford has been announced by health leaders.

Bradford's Healthy Hearts project has been developed to reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack in people who are considered to be at risk.

It is the brainchild of NHS Bradford Districts Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and will be developed over three years.

The CCG's lead for long-term conditions, Dr Chris Harris, said: "Because heart disease is the major cause of death in Bradford, the CCG is focusing on improving care for those who have, or who are at risk of developing, cardiovascular disease as a key priority.

"This campaign brings together all 41 of our local GP practices and the wider NHS with one aim, to reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack."

The project will target three main areas; vascular disease, including patients with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and peripheral arterial disease; atrial fibrillation, a condition which triggers abnormalities in the rhythm of the heart, and heart failure.

The campaign will start by focussing on vascular disease and letters will be sent to patients with heart conditions who are currently prescribed statins.

They will be told that their usual medication will be changed to Atorvastatin, a more effective statin which reduces the risk of stroke or heart attack.

Dr Youssef Beaini, clinical lead cardiovascular disease for the CCG said: "We are dedicated to improving the care of patients with heart disease in the CCGs area and our aim is to raise awareness of heart health.

"As a result, patients can expect a more detailed assessment by their GPs and their treatment could well be adjusted.

"Our key messages are aimed at helping people to live healthier and longer lives, and this can be achieved through knowing your blood pressure, knowing your blood sugar and lowering your cholesterol, as well understanding the powerful benefits of stopping smoking, healthy diets and physical exercise."

As part of the campaign, GPs will be working closely with pharmacies and hospitals as well as with Yorkshire Ambulance Service and Public Health.

The first phase of the project will target patients who have already been diagnosed with heart conditions and the second stage will raise awareness of heart health generally.